Pre-Seed Fund Pitch Competition
The Entrepreneurship Center launched the Pre-Seed Fund in January 2019 offering pre-seed funding opportunities to all students at Ball State University. These grants are designed to assist students who are in the early-stages of venture creation and enable venture development.
We are now expanding this opportunity into a pitch competition!
To be eligible for the grants, a maximum of $2,500 per student, per semester, applicants must be registered Ball State University students. Pre-seed funding can be used to advance venture development and reach milestones including, but not limited to securing intellectual property, prototype development, product validation, or competing in external venture competitions to raise awareness or additional funds for their venture.
"I have had the dream to start this business for a while, but I never thought it would be a reality. This is a great opportunity, and I am glad more students are becoming aware and taking advantage of it. I am eternally grateful!"
-Lila Fierek, Class of 2024
Who is eligible?
- all enrolled Ball State Univeristy students
- individuals or teams
How do I apply?
Interested students/teams should submit a 2-3 minute video outlining:
- Background of your venture
- What progress you've made thus far
- How much money you're requesting ($2,500/student maximum)
- How the funding would help you overcome an obstacle to make further venture progress
Within the application, you will also need to submit a brief outline of how the funding would be used.
When is the application open?
Applications will be open from January 6 - February 10. There is no advantage to applying earlier or later within that time period.
What are the next steps?
Once the application period has closed, the committee will review all applications and select a Top 5 finalist list. Finalists will then pitch live for the committee, who will field a Q&A, and then select the winners of the competition.
How is the funding disbursed?
Funding is issued as a mini-grant to students for approved line items.
Applicants interested in applying for the grants should complete the online application. Applications cannot be for expenses already incurred and pre-authorization is required.
For full list of requirements and additional details, click here.
Previous Winners