If there’s an ideal way to get funding for your venture – it’s definitely participating in a business plan competition! This is the best opportunity for you to receive an equity-free grant to sponsor your idea. Business startup contests are an amazing way to get exposure to the right audience, receive feedback on your strategic plan, and secure some solid funds to help you get get the ball rolling. Startup contests also provide you with a way to diversify your network and get access to new talent, clients, and partners.
Get your business plan ready for review! In this article, we break down 4 business startup contests that have approaching deadlines in May 2019:
CodeLaunch 2019
Prize: CodeLaunch sponsors offer more than $67,000 in seed services to the first-prize winner
Deadline: May 31, 2019
Apply: here
If you happen to have an awesome idea for software, or a mobile app, and nothing else more, then you’re qualified to enter the CodeLauch 2019. This is an annual seed accelerator for groups as well as individuals who have viable ideas for software based startups. If you’re looking for seed funding for your idea – CodeLauch is the perfect opportunity. This yearly contest attracts attention from the whole start-up community – including corporate leaders, venture capitalists and entrepreneurial organizations.
Balboa Capital’s “What’s the Big Idea?” Contest
Prizes: Grand Prize is $1K
Deadline: May 26, 2019
Apply: here
Balboa Capital is offering a brilliant opportunity for small business owners to elevate their business model to new heights. The entry process is simple. All you have to do is answer five questions about your business, and that’s it! You can win a shot at one thousand dollars. There are also other prizes. One runner-up will receive $500, and 10 honorable mention winners will score $50 each! Balboa Capital is a lender in small business loans and equipment leasing. The “What’s the Big Idea?” Contest is slated to kick off National Small Business Week.
Barclays Accelerator 2019
Prize: The winning companies receive up to $120,000 in funds.
Deadline: May 12, 2019
Apply: here
The Barclays Accelerator, powered by Techstars, helps entrepreneurs evolve to the next level. This is a 13-week programme that provides your small business with a range of resources to get you kickstarted and running. All areas of fintech, like investment banking, wealth management, cyber security, etc. are considered.
New York StartUP! 2019 Business Plan Competition
Prizes: Grand Prize is $15,000
Deadline: May 30, 2019
Apply: here
This business plan competition is sponsored by the New York Public Library. It is exclusively for New York entrepreneurs. This contest is perfect for businesses that are still in the startup phase. Participants have to attend multiple events prior to entry. If you miss out don’t worry, there’s always next year. This is an annual event that has taken place for 10 years.
