Upcoming Events

Community College Fall Startup Pitch Competition

Date & Time Monday, October 14 3:00pm-5:00pm
Location Iowa State University Campus | Student Innovation Center, Room 3231
Contact Megan Graettinger, mgraett@iastate.edu

The Community College Fall Startup Pitch Competition is hosted by the Iowa State University Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship. Two students from each of Iowa’s 15 community colleges are invited to deliver a 90-second pitch about an idea or business they are working on to a panel of judges to potentially win cash prizes!

There are 25 spots available for signup on Monday, October 14. Students may only pitch once.

Pitches will begin at 3:00 p.m. and end at 5:00 p.m.

Pitches will take place live in person at the Student Innovation Center on the Iowa State Campus, Room 3231. 

Never pitched before? No worries, attend our Virtual Pitch Workshop on Tuesday, October 1 from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.! Check out our tips for delivering a pitch if you want to get a head start!

WHAT TO EXPECT?

Students will compete in one of two categories, new idea or existing business, and are allowed 90 seconds to pitch their concept. A timer will show how much time remains as students present. A bell will ring at 90 seconds, and students will be asked to stop presenting – even if they have not finished their pitch. PowerPoints are NOT allowed. However, prototypes or drawings are permissible. Handouts or business cards for judges are acceptable (bring four).

Cash Prizes: Awards are at the discretion of the judges based on total number of participants in each category and the overall registrations.

New Idea (Concepts are in the idea stage with no revenue or products. Does NOT have to be a brand-new, never-before-made product/service. The business idea is new to YOU.)

  • 1st Place Winner – $500 cash award
  • 2nd Place Winner – $250 cash award

Existing Business Idea (Concepts are beyond the idea stage with revenue, demonstrable traction, working prototypes, customers, leads, or products. A business you are already running.)

  • 1st Place Winner – $500 cash award
  • 2nd Place Winner – $250 cash award

If you would like more information regarding the Fall Startup Pitch Competition, please email Ashley Sawyer at asawyer1@iastate.edu. 

Register