Rules/Limitations

1. All pitch applications will be reviewed by the StartUp Akron Pitch Competition Committee. Applicants selected to compete in the Pitch Competition will be notified by the Committee by September 3 and invited to Pitch on September 18, 2024.
2. Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
3. Applications are not limited to Akron residents.
4. Applications are open to manufacturers of packaged foods. However, please note that catering businesses and restaurants are ineligible to apply.
5. No Props, PowerPoints or other electronic or visual aids other than prototypes will be allowed in the competition, however set-up time will not be allowed. Handouts and samples may not be distributed to the judges or audience at any time during your presentation.
6. Pitches cannot be longer than 3 minutes (180 seconds).
7. One application per Person. If a person is involved in more than one business, another member of that business can complete an application.
8. Only one member of a business may present the pitch; all other business associates will be seated in the audience.
9. Winners agree to be contacted by the library for follow-up information gathering.
10. Photos and videos will be taken during the event. All participants’ likenesses may be used for promotional materials.
11. All decisions by the Committee and judges are final.

Thank you to the Burton D. Morgan Foundation for generously supporting the StartUp Akron Pitch Competition.