Startup Jackpot is the grassroots startup competition of the nation!
It means that instead of a traditional business plan competition with elevator pitches, elimination rounds, and way too many powerpoints, Startup Jackpot is run by, funded by and judged by entrepreneurs. All the money raised from ticket sales and sponsors go to the jackpot and the winning startup walks away with all of the money, no strings-attached.
StartupJackpot is a single-day event that consists of seasoned speakers in the morning, the jackpot competition in the afternoon, and celebration after. Leprechauns and Unicorns will permeate the event.
Actionable-advice and real world stuff. No bullshit, no fluff. Honest talks about things you can put to use now or in the near future.
A selection committee will first review your application and then choose the top 10 to 15 teams to pitch during the event. During the pitch competition, you will have 5 minutes to present your problem/solution, discuss viability and how you would use the money, and argue for how the jackpot will help you reach your next key milestone.
Teams will be chosen based on whether the Jackpot can make a meaningful impact to the startup and whether the team is ready to use the prize money effectively. You must articulate HOW you will use the money and what milestone this will help you reach. First stage selection is done by an internal selection committee.
The money comes in the form of a grant - we will not micromanage how you spend the money but will actively follow up with you after the competition. The only requirement is that after six months you create a short (5 minute) video discussing how you used the proceeds, whether your experiments worked or failed, why, and what your next steps are.
Nope.
The Jackpot is open to any early-stage startup between idea stage and having serious traction. Funded startups are allowed to compete AS LONG as they have raised less than $250,000 in funding. If you’re beyond that, you’re already on your way and we don’t think the Jackpot can make a meaningful impact to your business.
No. You should be whatever-time that allows you to get shit done.
If you are not selected, you will still receive a general admission ticket to the event. StartupJackpot is about supporting your community, so even if you are not selected we hope you will choose to support your peers by attending.
For all other questions email us at hello@startupjackpot.com.