Even though Innovation Showcase 2015 — Indiana’s largest exposition for startup companies — is still about two months away (July 9), the deadline for applications is one week away — with midnight on Monday (May 18) being the cutoff time.
Last year, more than 70 entrepreneurs exhibited and made minute-long pitches at the Dallara IndyCar Factory in Speedway, which hosts this year’s event as well. The showcase is one of the Hoosier State’s leading events for fundable companies to connect with potential investors and sources of capital. It also features morning educational sessions for angel investors and founders, as well as a day-after feedback session for exhibiting companies.
Innovate Indiana is among several sponsors for the showcase, which offers a cash prize and services package currently valued at $56,000 — and could eventually reach six figures — for the company that makes the best pitch.
According to Venture Club of Indiana President Todd Saxton, whose organization presents the event, the audience is being expanded to include companies within Indiana and beyond such as Cummins, John Deere, Microsoft, GE, Caterpillar, Finish Line, HH Gregg, Gilchrist & Soames and Proctor & Gamble — all of which represent business-to-business or business-to-consumer customers that some exhibitors may be targeting.
In addition, more investors than ever will be present, as Elevate will sponsor a dedicated area for investor and entrepreneur meet-ups, Saxton said.
“This includes our local sources, VisionTech and Halo, as well as regional players DRIVE from Columbus, Hyde Park in Chicago and Queen City Angels in Cincinnati. You can anticipate some deeper pockets from the coasts as well.”
— Todd Saxton, associate professor, Kelley School of Business and president, Venture Club of Indiana
Accepted showcase exhibitors that have never pitched before — or want to refine their booth or pitch for the showcase — can also attend an educational session set for June 18.
Companies interested in exhibiting at the showcase can apply here. For tickets to the showcase, read here:
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