• Prize Sponsors

  • Program Schedule

    The OhioXcelerate program is a statewide startup pitch program designed to nurture and advance startups across Ohio. It offers a unique blend of expert mentorship, strategic networking, and resource accessibility, targeting the specific needs of emerging businesses. Throughout the program, participants engage in tailored mentorship sessions and critical networking opportunities, all aimed at enhancing their business acumen and market readiness. This program is a gateway to Ohio's vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, providing startups with the tools and connections they need to succeed in today’s competitive business world. The 2024 program will be accepting four total participants and will culminate at the Ohio Tech Summit on May 16th 2024 in Columbus, where participants will share their pitch live. Below is a timeline of the program.

    December 2023: Program Announcement and Mentor Recruitment

    • Early December: Official Launch of OhioXcelerate 2024
    • Through December: Open call for mentors, outreach to Ohio-based organizations, venture capitalists, government entities, and other stakeholders

    December 2023 to January 2024: Application Period (Eligibility Requirements Link)

    February 2024: Finalist Selection and Initial Preparations

    • Early February: Selection of Four Finalists
    • Mid-February: Finalists Submit Virtual Pitches
    • Late February: Distribution of Feedback and Scorecards to Finalists from first round of Virtual Pitches

    March 2024: Virtual Mentoring and Pitch Prep

    • Weekly Throughout March: Virtual Sessions with Subject Matter Experts
      • Focus on refining pitches and business strategies
      • Categories include Problem & Solution, Go to Market, Financial Projections, and General Pitch Feedback

    April 2024: Virtual Presentation Sessions

    • Each Week of April: Virtual Presentation Sessions
      • Format: Virtual 10-Minute Pitches, 40 Minute Q&A, 10-Minute Participant Questions
      • Followed by Mentor Scoring and Feedback

    May 2024: Ohio Tech Summit and Grand Finale

    • May 16th 2024: Ohio Tech Summit
      • Finalists showcase their startups
      • Audience Scoring Segment
      • Winner Announcement

    Late May: Announcement of OhioXcelerate for Fall 2024

  • What to Expect

    1. Notice of Acceptance: You'll be informed about your acceptance into the program by early February. This notification will mark the beginning of your transformative journey with OhioXcelerate.
    2. Virtual Pitch Submission: Once accepted, you'll need to prepare and submit your virtual pitch. The deadline for this submission is mid-February.
    3. Pitch Review: After submission, your pitch will be reviewed by our mentor network. Expect to receive detailed feedback and a scorecard by the end of February.
    4. Virtual Pitch Preparation Sessions: Throughout March, you'll engage in pitch preparation sessions. These sessions are designed to fine-tune your presentation skills and business strategy, with guidance from subject matter experts.
    5. Virtual Presentations: In April you will pitch during a one hour virtual session with mentors and receive valuable insights during a Q&A session. Mentors will fill out a scorecard and feedback which will be compiled and sent back to you.
    6. Ohio Tech Summit: In May, live presentations will be held at the Ohio Tech Summit. This is where you'll present your startup to a wider audience, including potential investors and industry leaders. Expect a vibrant atmosphere of innovation and networking opportunities. Your presentation here could be the launchpad to new heights for your business.

    As a participant in OhioXcelerate, you're set for a journey filled with learning, growth, and ample opportunities to showcase your startup. Get ready to be challenged, inspired, and supported every step of the way!

  • 💡 For Mentors

    Join us in shaping the future of Ohio's innovation landscape. Your expertise and guidance can be the catalyst for the next big breakthrough across Ohio's diverse business industries. Mentor the brightest minds and help us cultivate a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

     

    🚀 For Startups

    Whether you're in Advanced Manufacturing, Healthcare, Tech, or any of Ohio's diverse industries, we offer a platform to accelerate your growth. Get ready for an enriching four-week journey with expert mentors, insightful feedback on your pitches, and an opportunity to shine at the Ohio Tech Summit.

     

  • Collaborate with OhioXcelerate

    1

    Spread the Word

    Utilize our provided sample messages for your social media and newsletters to encourage startups in your circle to participate in OhioXcelerate.

    2

    Recommend Startups

    Actively refer promising startups from your community, investment portfolio, or professional network to our team for consideration and follow-up.

    3

    Participate Actively

    Nominate someone from your organization to take an active role in OhioXcelerate as a mentor offering their expertise to evaluate and guide participating startups.

    4

    Facilitate Connections

    Introduce us to key figures in the startup ecosystem – mentors, investors, and industry experts – who you believe could significantly contribute to and benefit from OhioXcelerate’s network.

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