Waterloo’s Communitech startup hub is accepting applications for a new “Women Entrepreneurs Bootcamp” on August 19-21 and September 23-25.
“Are you looking for a way to launch and grow your business idea in Waterloo Region? Through Google for Entrepreneurs #40Forward, Communitech is hosting a two-part Women Entrepreneurs Bootcamp focused on validating and efficiently raising your business idea,” wrote the organizers. “Through a mix of core concepts and practical application, you’ll increase your exposure to our local ecosystem and gain a solid foundation for startup success.”
The new bootcamp is meant for women entrepreneurs who have a technology-based product idea in hardware or software with potential for IP ownership, for female founding team members who have received less than $100,000 in funding.
The two-part bootcamp will be split in to “Ideation” and “Building”:
Part I: Ideation (August 19-21)
“Develop your business idea and home in on a minimum viable product. The three-day session culminates in a pitch practice where teams receive extensive feedback to prepare for the next round – or are sent back to the drawing board.”
Part II: Building (September 23-25)
“Tune your business engine with an accelerated introduction to basic finance/accounting, marketing and sales, HR and compliance, legal and insurance. Then, compete for seed funding at the final pitch competition before an all-star panel of judges.”
Interested applicants should complete the application form before July 25, 2014. Short-listed candidates will be contacted by the Women in Technology team to complete a 30-minute interview, including a 10-minute pitch on your business opportunity. All candidates will know if they’ve made the cut before Aug. 8, 2014.
First prize will be $15,000, Second prize at $7,000 and third prize of $3,000.