Question 1

What can Founders win?

Accepted Answer

Founders can win Keys from each event, as well as earn Event Winner status that will help you get closer competing in the finale for the $100,000 cash prize, along with exposure, connections, and real investor attention.

Question 2

When can I submit my pitch?

Accepted Answer

You can submit your pitch at any time, up to 1 week before the event date you are submitting for.

Question 3

What happens after I submit my pitch?

Accepted Answer

Your submission will be reviewed by the Pitch Lift producers. If selected, a producer will contact you with further details.

Question 4

Do I need to apply with a video submission?

Accepted Answer

While not necessary to include in your submission, applying with a video will help us better understand your company and help Pitch Lift producers in deciding whether your submission will be accepted.

Question 5

Will there be real investors in the elevator?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our variety of judges in the elevator always includes at least one real investor.

Question 6

Can I apply for future events ahead of time?

Accepted Answer

No. Submissions will only be accepted for the next event's date. Submissions for the next event open the day after each event.

Question 7

What are the technical requirements for my video submission?

Accepted Answer

Length: Keep your video under 2 minutes.
Size: Maximum file size is 500MB.
Orientation: We accept both Horizonal & Vertical orientations.
Lighting & Sound: Ensure good lighting and clear audio.
Product & Props: Performing with your product or props will help us understand your business better. Include anything that's relevant to your pitch story.

Question 8

What happens if I win a Key?

Accepted Answer

Key holders advance to the semi-final competition, where they compete head-to-head for a chance at the finale and the $100,000 cash grand prize.

Question 9

Can I pitch again if I already won a Key?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We encourage key winners to come back and pitch again. You could turn your Key Winner status into Event Winner status and earn a spot in the finale.

Question 10

What happens if I become an Event Winner?

Accepted Answer

Each event will include 1 Event Winner, which will earn you automatic access to the Finale.

Question 11

Can I pitch again if I become an Event Winner?

Accepted Answer

Yes, of course! While Event Winners can't earn Event Winner status again, but we still encourage Event Winners to come back, practice and refine their pitch for the Finale.

Question 12

Do you have any tips for how to pitch well?

Accepted Answer

Bring your WHOLE self to this pitch! The judges want to hear your passion for your business while make a concise, compelling argument for why the world should pay attention to your story. Adding visuals to your pitch with intentionality can help bring your solution to life, but remember you've only got :30 - make sure they enhance your story and not distract from it. You don't need to be building a VC backable business, but you do need to prove why the world needs your solution now, and why you're the right founder to create it.

Question 13

Is pitch practice mandatory?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You must be on 1 of the 2 pitch practice coaching calls that we provide for free within 7 days of the event.

Question 14

What time is check-in day of?

Accepted Answer

Check in is from 4:30PM - 5:30PM for pitching founders at 101 Arch Street. If you arrive late you will be disqualified.

Question 15

How do you determine the pitching order?

Accepted Answer

Founders participate in a mini game challenge from 5:30pm - 6:30pm to determine the order of elevator pitch participation for the night. Remember that once the 7 keys are given out, pitching for the night is over, so performing well in the mini challenge increases your likelihood for getting the opportunity to pitch and win a key.

Frequently asked questions