The Accelerate St. Louis and Export Challenge is exactly what it sounds like — a challenge for the best local startups. The reward: No-strings-attached cash, top-tier professional services, new office space, and an opportunity to compete in front of St. Louis’ startup community. With some of the biggest sponsors and best prize packages, the challenge highlights local entrepreneurs, helps them develop their venture and rewards the best-of-the-best in an all-out public celebration.

Did we mention there is $120,000 up for grabs?

Winners of the Accelerate St. Louis Challenge and Export Challenge will be announced on November 16th at Startup Connection, the largest showcase of St. Louis’ top startups.

NEW IN 2016!

This year we are adding the St. Louis Export Challenge competition to reward the best exporters within the region. The St. Louis Export Challenge was created to promote exporting within the region along with the World Trade Center, St. Louis Mosaic and the Brookings Global Cities initiative. We plan to reward startups and small to mid-size companies in the region that plan to export within their first two years of launch; strengthening those companies through relevant analysis and support; and rewarding the best-of-the-best at the end of the Export Challenge. The total prize money is $60,000.

BRIGHT FUTURES DIVERSITY AWARDS

Returning for another year, startups also can compete for additional cash and in-kind prizes in four additional categories, including: Bright Futures-Minority, Bright Futures-Woman, Bright Futures-Mosaic Immigrant, and Bright Futures-Veteran.

APPLICATIONS HAVE NOW CLOSED AND FINALISTS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED

Challenge Overview & Rules
Challenge Prizes
Important Dates

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