Reviewed by:
Want to participate in Alabama Launchpad Cycle 4? Applications close Sept. 14
Sponsored
Calling all Alabama entrepreneurs! The fourth Alabama Launchpad competition of 2020 is almost here. The team at Alabama Launchpad has extended the deadline for applications until September 14th at 5PM, so don’t wait—fill out your application today.
What is Alabama Launchpad?
- Contact: 205.943.4700 | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Alabama Launchpad, a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, is the most active early-stage seed fund investor in the state. In fact, since 2006 Alabama Launchpad has invested more than $5.5 million in 98 Alabama startups. Alabama Launchpad’s goal is simple: to turn great ideas into companies that make our state brighter, bolder and better than ever.
Here’s how it works. Each quarter, the team at Alabama Launchpad selects several promising startups from around Alabama to participate. In the weeks building up to the finale, each startup receives invaluable coaching and mentorship to help finalize their business model. In fact, a finalist for Alabama Launchpad gets up to five qualified professionals reviewing their entire business model not once, not twice, but THREE times by the time they finish the competition!
Finally, each startup will pitch their idea to a panel of expert judges. Finalists in the Seed Stage category compete for $100K, while finalists in the Concept Stage category complete for $50K.
What makes Alabama Launchpad unique?
I can sit here and rattle off facts all day—but don’t take my word for it. Here’s what several previous participants and judges have to say about their experience in Alabama Launchpad.
PeggyLee Wright, Head Judge for Industrial Sector of Reignite Alabama
The experience of being a judge was amazing! I am in contact with the panel judges that I served with, and we are forging relationships that are complementary to our businesses, as well as genuine friendships.
Mazi Rasulnia, Pack Education, Reignite Alabama Finalist
Since our pitch was a new concept, it was so helpful to receive validation and feedback. We were excited to use the platform of Reignite Alabama to educate the marketplace about our service, and get our name out there!
Joshua Mickler, TUTR, Reignite Alabama Finalist
The experience that Alabama Launchpad offers, with insight from judges, coaches and entrepreneurs, is simply invaluable. You can’t buy that kind of experience, and you certainly can’t look it up on the internet.
Lindsey Pattillo, Judge, Reignite Alabama
The judging experience for Alabama Launchpad was phenomenal. Professionals from all over the state convened to bolster the next generation of entrepreneurs and start ups. Aside from supporting fellow entrepreneurs, the camaraderie felt amongst the judges was palpable. During a global time of uncertainty, convening to support Alabama’s future business ventures was inspiring and uplifting.
The judges worked diligently to provide valuable verbal and written feedback for all candidates. All finalists were given judges’ contact information so we could continue the conversation and support their business as it evolves and grows.
My favorite aspect of the experience was taking myself out of my comfort zone, meeting new colleagues, and playing a small role in supporting Alabama’s innovative future. I was deeply inspired and look forward to many more successes from Alabama Launchpad.
Want to Compete in Alabama Launchpad?
Have an idea that can make our state a better place? Alabama Launchpad can help make your idea a reality. Apply today to receive feedback from Alabama’s most experienced entrepreneurs and have a chance to take home your part of $150K in funding.
Applications close September 14 at 5PM.
Be sure to tune in to the livestream on on Alabama Launchpad’s website and Facebook page on November 19!
Sponsored by:
