The New Venture Competition is a showcase of entrepreneurial spirit, innovation and competition. All ventures created, run, and owned by University of Nebraska–Lincoln students* are invited to compete. During the two day event, undergraduate and graduate students pitch their business plans to a panel of judges and field questions based on feasibility, market potential, financial projections and more. Judge panels are comprised of founders and professionals in the entrepreneurship ecosystem who are dedicated to advancing entrepreneurship in Nebraska and beyond. Teams that have competed in prior University of Nebraska–Lincoln competitions AND been awarded $7,500 or more (total across all competitions) will compete in a separate, Advanced Traction Bracket.
*Alumni who graduated within a year of the competition (May 2023 or after) are invited to compete.
The New Venture Competition uses a bracket style (3 rounds, knockout elimination) competition. Teams advance through two preliminary rounds on Day 1. Following those two rounds, four teams will compete against one another on Day 2. One grand prize of $15,000 will be awarded, as well as cash prizes for 2nd-4th place. Prizes will be awarded immediately following the competition during the awards reception. All competitors are welcome to attend the final round of competition and the Entrepreneur Awards Celebration on April 18 at the Rococo Theatre! You'll connect with your peers and entrepreneurial leaders from across the country.
Pre-competition workshops are scheduled on March 28, April 2, April 4, and April 9 to help you prepare your business plan, craft a compelling pitch and ask questions.
Unable to make it to the workshops? Schedule a consult with Mallory at https://calendly.com/mkrenk2
Have questions? Email Mallory at mkrenk2@unl.edu – looking forward to helping you bring your business or idea to life!
Register and find guidelines, the workshop schedule, and answers to frequently asked questions at https://go.unl.edu/newventure
More details at: https://go.unl.edu/newventure