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Home > BizTimes Daily > Archives > September 19, 2007
Companies sought for 'Elevator Pitch Olympics'
Published September 19, 2007 - BizTimes Daily
Start-up companies can apply for one of two chances to present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium, to be held Nov. 14-15 at Madison's Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center.
The annual conference, which has existed under different names for more than 20 years, will feature the third annual "Elevator Pitch Olympics" for companies in a seed financing stage and a separate Wisconsin Angel Network Early Stage presentation track for companies seeking angel investments in the $500,000 to $2 million range. Up to 30 companies will be selected to present at the conference.
The "Elevator Pitch Olympics" will allow entrepreneurs to make 90-second presentations to a panel of venture and angel investors. The term describes a pitch that's short enough to be given during an elevator ride. Just as in the real Olympics, investor judges hold up their scores and give points ranging from 1 to 5 in the categories of “quality of presentation” and “business fundability.” Immediately afterwards, presenters will get constructive feedback from the judges – all seasoned investors.
First preference in the Elevator track will be given to companies that take part in the VentureQuest educational seminar, which helps entrepreneurs prepare to seek private equity and other financing. About 20 companies will be selected for the Elevator track. E-mail an executive summary to Liz Katz at lkatz@wisconsintechnologycouncil.com by 5 p.m. on Oct. 12 if you wish to be considered.
Ten companies that are currently looking for funding (within the next six months) will make full presentations to investors in the WAN Early Stage track. Tech-based companies that are looking for $500,000 to $2 million in financing are eligible. The presentation length will be seven minutes. Submit executive summaries to Liz Katz at lkatz@wisconsintechnologycouncil.com by 5 p.m. Oct. 12 for review by the conference steering committee.
For additional information, contact Katz at (608) 442-7557, extension. 27, or WAN director Joe Kremer at ext. 23.
The conference is produced by the Wisconsin Technology Council and its partners and sponsors. Visit www.wisconsintechnologycouncil.com/events/earlystage to register or learn more.
