PLUG In.
BOOST YOUR NETWORK.
MAKE YOUR BUSINESS SURGE!
Throughout Surge, each contestant refines their business model, gains exposure, and builds their confidence while tapping into an audience of industry and community partners to expand their network. Participants are selected to pitch to our panel of judges for a $10,000 prize (there’s also be an additional Audience Choice Award)! Leading up to the competition event, contestants have the chance to practice pitching, tell their start-up story, get tips from experts, and meet other entrepreneurs.
2023 contestants
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
PARTICIPATING PARTNERS
HOW TO APPLY
1. Create a video pitch no more than 3 minutes long describing:
The problem you are trying to solve/the opportunity you see
How you plan to solve the problem/take advantage of the opportunity
What you see as the market potential
How you will make money
Who is part of your team
Video production quality is not part of the criteria, so don’t worry if you’re not a pro!
2. Upload your video to YouTube (or other video platform). You can make your video hidden by checking the option for “Unlisted” (do not set it as “Private”). If you need help with this step, please e-mail info@createportagecounty.org
3. Apply here and share a link to your YouTube video.
Contestant Eligibility
Four (4) contestant spots are reserved for students of UW-Stevens Point, Mid-State Technical College, and Northcentral Technical College.
We encourage applicants from all backgrounds. If you need any assistance when completing your application, please contact info@createportagecounty.org. All applicants (whether selected this round or not) will be invited to Surge pitch preparation events and ongoing entrepreneur networking opportunities to even out the playing field!
At the time of application
· Your business is at least 51% owned, controlled, operated, and managed by Contestant (that’s you!)
· Your business made $50,000 or less in net revenue and $250,000 or less in gross revenue in 2022
· Your business employed 5 or fewer people in 2022
At the time of competition (Fall 2023)
· Your business must have operated for at least 3 months
· Your business must be registered in the State of Wisconsin
· Must have a legal business checking account
· Must provide business plan or proof of qualifying class/consultant sign-off