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This summer they are hosting their first conference and it’s shaping up to be a must-attend event.  Startup 2009 will be one-day conference that will feature interviews with entrepreneurs, expert panels, networking, and a 10-company startup contest.  The 10 companies selected will compete for bragging rights, buzz, and a $50,000 prize!

They are using Angelsoft to manage the screening process for the contest so if you already have an application, all you need to do is apply.

The Contest

Emerging online companies are invited to submit applications to present at the conference.  Their panel of VCs and experts will evaluate the applications in Angelsoft.  They will then choose 10 finalists from the pool of applicants to present at the event.

Applying to the contest is free and all companies that apply will be evaluated by General Catalyst, Softbank, and Venrock for possible investment.  One of the finalists will also win a $50,000 prize, which will consist of a $25,000 cash investment from General Catalyst Partners and $25,000 of in-kind services.  The latter will include:

  • Up to 6 months of office space in NYC.
  • Marketing campaign with Silicon Alley Insider.
  • Legal services from a top-notch law firm.

How to Apply

Emerging companies in the online industry are invited to apply.  (They’re defining “emerging” as less than a few million of seed capital.)  Concept-only companies are fine, but you will need to describe your planned product and value proposition in detail.

Here’s how to apply:

1. Log-in to Angelsoft on the right hand side of the Startup 2009 Profile to start an application.  If you do not have an Angelsoft account click Sign Up directly under the Login button.

2. Ignore the “Apply For Funding” part.  You’re applying for the contest, not funding.

3. If you already have an Angelsoft account, you will be asked if you want to copy your answers from a previous application.  If not, fill in the information and upload your business plan–any other uploaded material will be discarded.

4. Save your work and submit your application.

Jason D. Schwartz :: Mar.31.2009
Business Plan Competition, Entrepreneur