Applications open for Montana State’s $100K Venture Competition, set for April 21

BOZEMAN - Applications are open for Montana State University's $100,000 Venture Competition, which is hosted annually by the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship and the MSU Launchpad.

The competition provides entrepreneurs with the opportunity to present their business ventures, receive feedback and compete for startup funding. Those interested in competing must submit an online application by Sunday, March 29.

The competition is open to all undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, researchers, postdoctoral researchers and recent alumni (2024 and 2025 graduates) from MSU, the University of Montana, Montana Tech and affiliated campuses.

Semifinalists, who will be notified April 3, will deliver virtual presentations to judges the week of April 13. The selected finalists will then present their ventures on Tuesday, April 21, at 5 p.m. in Inspiration Hall in MSU's Norm Asbjornson Hall. The event is free and open to the public. This event offers $100,000 in award money, in addition to connections with experienced entrepreneurs, investors, mentors and network resources. Participants will receive feedback from judges and may capture the attention of investors.

Categories for the competition will include Social Impact, Deep Tech or University-based Research, and Traditional Venture. Participants select the track that best fits their business. All types of ventures are welcome, including new products, services, nonprofit ventures and those with a social impact focus.

Last year, finalist ventures included a film studio focused on producing and distributing regional and independent films, a lidar imaging and communication venture, an MSU team working on new technology to increase grain yields and a new technology company focused on water management.

Venture award winners from previous competitions are not eligible to compete. In addition, startup businesses that have received venture capital or angel funding are not eligible. But those that have received funding from a Montana University System institution or the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs may participate.

Applications and competition information can be found at montana.edu/business/venture-competition/.

Questions about the MSU $100K Venture Competition should be directed to 406-994-4383 or [email protected].

The Launchpad helps MSU students succeed in entrepreneurship and in their careers. Open to students, faculty and alumni in all majors, the campus-based Launchpad provides guidance, mentoring, opportunities for participants to grow their networks, and resources to help their businesses succeed. For more information, visit montana.edu/launchpad/.