If so, then you should consider competing in the global 1776 Challenge Cup.

What is the Challenge Cup?

The Challenge Cup is a global competition in 16 cities around the world to identify and celebrate the most promising startups tackling the biggest challenges in four categories: education, energy, health, and cities.

The competition features a 2-day accelerator program; an exciting public competition with the most innovative companies in the four categories; and an opportunity to connect with prominent entrepreneurs, investors, customers and partners.

At each competition, up to 40 startups will present their 1 minute pitches, 8 will move on to the 5 minute pitch round and 4 will win a free trip to Washington, D.C. for the Global Finals where there will be over $650,000 in prizes available.

Why should my company compete?

Besides the awesome prizes that the regional and global winners will receive,  here are the benefits you will get if you take part in this:

  • 2 day accelerator program (sample schedule here) with mentors, corporate partners, and investors
  • Pitch coaching workshop
  • Get to know other startups and experts in your industry
  • Receive hands-on advice for growing your startup
  • Get exposure through international media channels (see samples articles from last year)
  • Get exposure through 1776 (a dedicated reporter will be at all events – see samples from last year)
  • Pitch in front of VIPs in your community
  • Opportunity to win a free trip to Washington, DC and up to $150,000 in the form of an investment (meet the winners from last year).

You can take a look at the highlights from the previous challenge cups.

How can I compete in the Challenge Cup?

For the competition in 2015, you can choose what city you want to compete in, if you meet the requirements for competing.

You can find the list of requirements and the application information by clicking here.

What is 1776?

1776 is a tech startup hub, located in Washington DC, a few blocks from the White House.

Or as 1776 puts it:

1776 is a platform to reinvent the world by connecting the hottest startups with the resources they need to excel. From our Campus a few blocks from the White House, 1776 serves as a global hub for startups tackling major challenges in education, energy, health care, government, and other critical industries. 1776 startups receive mentorship, corporate connections, access to capital, media attention, and a pipeline of top talent—the raw materials critical for innovators to succeed.

1776 was founded by Donna Harris and Evan Burfield after Donna finished her work in the Startup America Partnership, which helped improve the startup environments in various cities and districts in USA.

 

All in all, this is a fantastic opportunity for you to accelerate your startup and have the potential to win fantastic prizes as well.

If you are in one of these four sectors, don’t wait, apply now!