Exploration Park, Miami and Tampa, Fla. (April 8, 2020) Aerospace and innovative tech companies from related industries are invited to apply to present in a web-based competition for the Space Florida Accelerating Innovation (AI) awards, totaling $100,000. Selected presenting companies must have a focus in aerospace and related innovative technologies (see commercial markets listed below) to be eligible to compete for up to $100,000 in total allocated awards. The FIRST PLACE* winning company will receive $40,000, and TWO RUNNER UP prizes of $20,000 will be awarded to each runner up winner. Additionally, ALL selected presenter companies will be awarded $1,000 each.
This unique Webinar series is an opportunity for early stage, Florida-based companies in the fields of aerospace and related technologies, as well as non-Florida entities with commitments to relocate to Florida, and/or other demonstrable engagement in the Florida aerospace and innovation supply chain. Specifically, the opportunity is to broaden access to funding sources. The Aerospace Innovation and Tech Forum will provide this opportunity for the presenting companies to engage with the Florida Venture Forum investment community, which includes private equity, venture capital and angel investors. Presenter applications will be chosen by a selection committee made up of active angel and early stage equity investors.
SPACE FLORIDA FOCUS COMMERCIAL MARKETS
All participating companies must be engaged in market sectors that align with the strategic sectors of Space Florida, set forth in its Vision 2020. These sectors are: information technology, health technology, knowledge based services, space transportation and advanced aerospace platforms, satellite systems and science payloads, ground and operations support systems, bio-agriculture research, water issues, climate/environmental monitoring, civil protection and emergency management, ISS and human life science (including medical research), communications, cyber security and robotics, 3-D printing, adventure tourism, clean/alternative energy applications, advanced innovative materials and new products.
All ACCEPTED companies will be eligible to compete for prize money in addition to receiving the $1,000. NOTE: Prize money determination by the judges is final.
PRESENTER PROCESS
ALL applicants must complete the presenter application on the Forum’s application website. In addition, a one-minute compelling pitch via video must be emailed to: pat@flventure.org. The application deadline is May 1, 2020.
Upon notification of selection, presenters must submit an additional, five-minute video pitch (MP4 file) with accompanying slide deck (PPT). Five-minute presentations must be submitted upon notification to: pat@flventure.org. Selected presenters will be scheduled to present via webinar on selected days throughout the month of May with the final award presentation delivered via webinar on June 5, 2020.
*Previous 1st placed Grand Prize Winners are ineligible to reapply.
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About Space Florida: Space Florida was created to strengthen Florida’s position as the global leader in aerospace research, investment, exploration and commerce. As Florida’s aerospace and spaceport development authority, we are committed to attracting and expanding the next generation of space industry businesses. With its highly trained workforce, proven infrastructure and unparalleled record of achievement, Florida is the ideal location for aerospace businesses to thrive – and Space Florida is the perfect partner to help them succeed. www.spaceflorida.gov.
About The Florida Venture Forum: The Florida Venture Forum is Florida’s largest statewide support organization for investors and entrepreneurs, helping emerging Florida companies connect with sources of capital from across the country. The organization provides programs statewide throughout the year in addition to hosting the Florida Venture Capital Conference, the Statewide Collegiate Business Plan Competition and the Early Stage Capital Conference. www.flventure.org.
