Applications for Michigan Women Forward’s (MWF) virtual business plan and pitch competition, WomanUp & Pitch, are now available.
The competition is a funding opportunity for women who wish to start or grow an existing for-profit business. MWF will hold four location-based contests in March 2023 to select 40 total finalists from the entry applications – 10 from each contest, divided into two categories: idea phase/startup and established/growth.
Contest Information
The contests will be held:
- March 2 – West Michigan Virtual Pitch Competition
- March 9 – Mid-Michigan Virtual Pitch Competition
- March 22 – Southeast Michigan Virtual Pitch Competition
- March 30 – Statewide Food Competition (in-person)
All 40 finalists will be connected to advisors, coaches, and mentors who will provide professional services and advice as the the finalists create viable business plans and prepare to pitch their idea to a panel of business experts and an audience of entrepreneurs, small business owners, potential investors, and business and community leaders.
The top three winners of each contest in each category will also win a cash prize.
First Place: $10,000
Second Place: $5,000
Third Place: $2,500
Audience Choice: $1,000 (one winner per contest)
Applications will remain open until Nov. 9, 2022, at 5 p.m.
Who is eligible to apply?
- Businesses located in Michigan
- At least 51% woman-owned
- For-profit business
Finalists from previous WomanUp & Pitch competitions cannot apply with the same businesses.
