High Stakes Pitch Application Deadline Closes March 31

(Baton Rouge, La., March 21, 2023) — Nexus Louisiana is accepting applications for the highly-anticipated High Stakes Pitch competition. The competition, similar in format to ABC's popular show, Shark Tank, with companies competing for investment commitments before a live audience,  returns Friday, May 5. A $100,000 cash investment will be awarded to the winner courtesy of  Innovation Catalyst and members of the Red Stick Angel Network.  

Applications are due March 29, 2023, and must include a two-page executive summary. Participating businesses must have less than $500,000 in annual revenue within the last 12 months.

"Louisiana is home to number of innovative and creative entrepreneurs," said Stephen Loy, executive director of the NexusLA Technology Park. "By offering programs such as the High Stakes Pitch competition, our goal is to raise the profile of these high-potential companies and connect them to our regional investment community."

The high stakes pitch competition is open to Louisiana-based companies and businesses based outside of the state that certify their willingness to relocate if they win. Applicants should have a scalable, high-growth business model with a strong management team.

"The judge’s criteria for picking the three finalists and the ultimate winner will be based on which company has the best presentation and is the most “investable company,” says Bill Ellison, the CEO of Innovation Catalyst and the Red Stick Angel Network. "Judges will be focusing on whether the company has a unique, innovative offering with a scalable business model that addresses a critical pain point for a large and growing market."

Qualified semi-finalists will be selected from the pool of applicants and will be notified on April 3, 3023. Semi-finalists will then submit their business plan, media materials, and a one-page summary for review and comment by semi-final round judges. Semi-finalists will deliver their pitches behind closed doors on April 18, 2023, at the Nexus Louisiana Technology Park.

All teams will receive feedback on their pitches, but only three teams will be selected to continue to the final round and live pitch event. Final teams will receive coaching and mentorship before delivering the live pitch during BREW. Judges will choose the team they deem most investable. The $100,000 investment prize is provided by a pool of experienced, accredited investors, and is managed jointly by Innovation Catalyst and Red Stick Angels.

The competition will take place during the 12th annual Baton Rouge Entrepreneurship Week (BREW) that coincides with National Small Business Week.

BREW includes six days of events designed to educate and inspire established start-ups, aspiring founders — and every entrepreneur in-between. With BREW, NexusLA aims to provide attendees with resources and opportunities to support their passions, innovations and business growth.

Seminar topics will include ways to build a loyal following, how to leverage alternative funding options and the rise of artificial intelligence. Past speakers include Todd Graves, Sevetri Wilson and Julio Melera.

NexusLA encourages local founders across industries to attend BREW and connect with their peers within the Baton Rouge start-up community.
“One of the main advantages of BREW is its opportunity to connect attendees with individuals who share similar visions and are committed to helping the community grow,” affirmed Na'Tisha Natt, director of marketing and engagement for NexusLA.

Natt urges local business community members to attend and get involved in the event. “We are looking for enthusiastic and revolutionary innovators to to join us as we pursue taking risks, pushing boundaries, and inspiring creativity,” she said.

To apply for High Stakes Pitch or for more information about BREW, visit celebratebrew.com

Nexus Louisiana’s mission is to accelerate the growth of high-potential companies by providing them with coaching, capital and connections. Our programs leverage regional collaboration to foster mentorship, investment and opportunity for local entrepreneurs to grow their ideas and transform the technology industry in Louisiana. For more information, please visit https://nexusla.org.