Frequently Asked Questions
What is MassChallenge?
MassChallenge is startup creation competition designed to connect entrepreneurs with the critical resources they need to launch high-growth businesses immediately. The competition will formally launch in Spring 2010. The competition is industry and geography agnostic -- anyone can enter, with any startup idea, from anywhere on the planet.
How does the application process work?
Entrants will need to submit an executive summary and an online elevator pitch for the first round of judging. Our website will enable submission starting on or around March 15, 2010. Those entrants who pass to the second round of judging will pitch directly to a panel of experts. The best 100 of those teams will receive free resources, and will enjoy access to top mentors and hundreds of other stakeholders from across Massachusetts and New England. The final round of judging will be based on more detailed presentations to a panel of extremely successful entrepreneurs. All entrants will receive coaching, feedback, PR and networking support. Winners will receive cash prizes and will enjoy privileged access to top investors seeking to place seed capital to work in high-growth firms .
What are the eligibility requirements for entry?
Anyone can enter MassChallenge, with any startup idea, from anywhere around the world.
Startups do not need to originate or headquarter in Massachusetts.
Given the importance of judging teams and people, semi-finalists will be required to engage with mentors and judges, either in person, via telephone or other remote connectivity. Because finalists will be required to attend events and meetings in Massachusetts in person, non-US entrants will need to demonstrate viable accessibility to the United States during the semi-finals, e.g. access to visas and funding for travel. MassChallenge can work with entrants to facilitate access to visas, sponsorship and/or local accommodations, but makes no guarantees.
What are the key dates?
The first MassChallenge will take place in 2010. We anticipate the following approximate dates for entry, and will update these dates here as they become final:
For what stage company is the MassChallenge intended?
All competition categories are intended for seed- and early-stage companies. We are still finalizing the precise definition criteria, but we anticipate limiting entry to organizations that have received less than $500,000 in funding to date, and less than $1M in revenue over the preceding 12 months.
We are no longer planning to include an expansion stage category in 2010.
How do I get more information on MassChallenge?
Please join our Facebook page and Linkedin group, follow us on Twitter, and monitor our website for updates.
If you have a specific request and/or question that isn’t addressed on our website or social networking sites, please send an email inquiry to:
I am not from Massachusetts. Can I still enter the MassChallenge?
Anyone can enter the competition as long as they meet the eligibility requirements above.
