Being a startup is about more than just hard work. While drive goes a long way in facilitating success, showcasing your innovative ideas in a meaningful and supportive atmosphere is the key to launching your startup with gusto. Fortunately, Tech.Co is more than happy to provide that atmosphere with our annual Startup of the Year competition! The top 100 startups selected will be asked to join us at Innovate! and Celebrate 2017 in Silicon Valley, California.
The History
Tech.Co has been bringing together and showcasing early stage startups since 2006. In doing so, we have had the pleasure of meeting and helping to amplify the stories of some great companies like GrubHub, Groupon, LivingSocial, AddThis, and even Uber. Our mission is to discover and support the most promising and innovative startups in the world.
Each year, Tech.Co reviews thousands of applications of startups looking to take the next step towards success. We narrow our applicant pool to the top 100 startups, who are invited to advance to our Startup of the Year Competition at Innovate! and Celebrate.
The Reasons to Apply
We are looking to support the best and brightest startups and entrepreneurs in pushing their operation to a higher level. There are many aspects of Startup of the Year that will empower you to leverage your ideas.
Network with Top Investors
This is your chance to network and develop relationships with Tech.Co’s community of investors, mentors, and industry leaders. You’ll have a chance to meet people who can propel your business forward, like Jeff Clavier, Lisa Lambert, Gary Benitt, Tristan Pollock, Ari Newman, Cheryl Foil, and may more.
A wide range of accelerators and partners will also be present at the conference. These connections will provide your startup with more than just capital; they offer the guidance and experience you need to make an impact on your industry. These partners include Techstars, DreamIt Ventures, Tech Wildcatters, 500 Startups, Amplify.LA, and many more.
Gain Insights and Get Noticed
By joining Tech.Co’s alumni of startups, you’ll be able to develop life long connections and meet people who can help drive the success of your business. You’ll also be able to help your startup get noticed by even more top investors and accelerators in the industry by applying to and attending one of our events at CES and SXSW.
Win Prizes
It’s not a competition without amazing prizes! Tech.Co has a dense network of sponsors who offer their products and services to ensure the highest successes of our startups. From American Airlines business travel points and IBM business services credits to valuable startup resources and media coverage, you’ll be set up for success. Plus, you’ll also be able to get some awesome gear, along with community recognition that will propel your startup towards success.
The Requirements
Tech.Co wants to support new and innovative ideas coming from young startups and burgeoning entrepreneurs. Before you apply, please make sure your company falls in line with our application requirements.
- Startups must be under 4 years old
- Startups must have no more than $4 million USD funding at time of application
- Startups must have a live and viable product
- Startups must be INNOVATIVE! – Make sure to describe and exhibit why your company is disruptive and exciting in your application. We are looking to learn why your company is the right company to solve the issue you are addressing.
The Dates
Tech.Co will be accepting applications from November 15, 2016 to April 20, 2017. It is very important all applications are complete during this time period. There will be no deadline extensions.
Between May 31st, 2017 and July 1, 2017, Tech.Co will invite vetted industry leaders to participate in initial judging of applicants, then live online polling, followed by the Tech.Co team announcing the top 100 startup candidates for the competition.
On July 10, 2017, Tech.Co will announce the Top 100 Semifinalist Startups who will invited to Innovate! and Celebrate.
The Application
If you think you have what it takes to be the Startup of the Year, you need to apply today. Remember, the 100 startups that are chosen will be invited to join us in Silicon Valley, CA for Innovate! and Celebrate 2017, and will be on their way to startup success in no time!