National Venture Plan Competition

Entering the competition offers startups one the biggest opportunities to raise capital by fast-tracking them to present to many investor groups, angels, and VCs. Such opportunity provides potentially more value than the traditional monetary prizes.

Present to investors in three different categories
Attend invaluable webinars and learn
Win prizes
Biggest Value: Screen/Present to multiple investor groups

The competition provides startups and founders with invaluable exposure to investors across the nation. After the last year’s competition, millions of dollars were invested in several companies by investors, angels, angel groups, VCs and funds largely due to their participation in the competition.

Application Information for the Competitors

Spectator - Not competing? Attend and Learn

Round 2 Begins

Round 1 has ended and 60 great companies have moved into Round 2.

Companies will pitch to investors/judges starting October 19. Competitors will have the opporutnity to present a 5-min pitch followed by a 5-min Q&A. Best of luck to all.

“The competition was a great help to us. Finishing in the top three led directly to investments by Tech Coast Angels and the Berkeley Angel Network. I hope you get plenty of great companies to enter. I have shared the information with several of my fellow entrepreneurs.” Matthew Handel, CEO, ExpressCells

“I want to thank both the judges and the organizers for running a top-notch competition. From the webinars to the insightful feedback, this was well worth the investment for all the participants. The finalists were all supremely qualified, and I am humbled that the judges selected Terecircuits for the top honor.” Wayne Rickard, CEO. Terecircuits closed a $1M+ round immediately after the competition.

“GroGuru was honored to be selected as the second overall. Pismo Ventures’ National Venture Plan Competition provided priceless education and great exposure for future potential investments.” Patrick Henry, CEO.

About Pismo Ventures’ National Venture Plan Competition

Pismo Ventures calls on all startups and entrepreneurs anywhere! The National Venture Plan Competition offers ventures the opportunity to present their business, obtain honest and expert feedback from experienced judges and investors, have exposure to angels, VCs, and other investors nationwide, and win invaluable prizes along the way. The competition is open to all businesses pre or post revenue (not only an idea) across the nation.

Competitors apply by submitting an online application, a 15-page powerpoint pitch deck, and a 90-second video demonstration of the product or service.

Panel of Investor Judges

We have a great lineup of entrepreneurs, startup experts, investors, judges, advisors, and mentors not only to judge your business for the competition, but also to provide invaluable feedback.

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Online Workshops & Webinars

Applicants and general admission attendees will be able to attend all workshops and webinars especially prepared for this competition. Topics include finance, legal, marketing/sales, pitch deck, and much more.

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