Apply to the Fast Pitch competition by Women Founders Network and gain access to cash prizes, mentorship, and resources to elevate your women-led startup.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

In the dynamic landscape of startups, female founders often face unique challenges that require tailored support and resources. The Fast Pitch competition by Women Founders Network is designed specifically to empower women entrepreneurs by providing female pitch coaching, mentorship, and substantial cash prizes to accelerate their startup journeys.

About the Fast Pitch Competition

The Fast Pitch competition offers a platform for women-led startups to showcase their innovations and secure the funding needed to scale their businesses. With two distinct tracks—Tech/Tech-enabled and Consumer/CPG/Other Non-tech—the competition caters to a diverse range of startups.

Competition Tracks

Tech/Tech-enabled: For B2B or B2C companies that heavily rely on technology to deliver their product or service. The 1st place winner in this track receives a $25k cash grant.
Consumer/CPG/Other Non-tech: Suitable for businesses offering physical products, consumer-focused media/content, e-commerce sites, or consumer services. The top winner here also secures a $25k cash grant.

Additionally, one finalist selected by Junior Venture Capitalists will receive an extra $5k cash grant.

Benefits for Finalists

Finalists in the Fast Pitch competition receive a comprehensive suite of benefits designed to enhance their entrepreneurial skills and network:

Female Pitch Coaching: One-on-one coaching to refine pitching skills and optimize pitch decks, ensuring startups present their best selves to potential investors.
Spark Collective Perks: Access to exclusive discounts on a variety of products and services.
Financial Mentor: Expert guidance to organize financials effectively for investor pitches.
Alumni Community: Continued support and networking opportunities within a community of successful alumni founders.
Valuable Connections: Opportunities to meet and connect with potential investors and industry leaders.
Practice Pitch Events: Sessions to pitch to curated groups and receive constructive feedback.
Professional Services: Free professional services awards to support various aspects of the business.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Fast Pitch competition, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Leadership: Founder, Co-Founder, or CEO must be a woman, or the business must be majority-owned by a woman.
Event Participation: Must attend and participate in the annual Fast Pitch Event on October 28 in Los Angeles, CA (travel expenses are the responsibility of the applicant).
Funding Cap: Must have raised no more than $750K in outside funding, excluding non-dilutive grants.
Location: Business must be based in the United States.
Stage: Pre-revenue plans are welcome if there is demonstrated customer interest (e.g., sign-ups, surveys, letters of intent).

Note: Applications from Life Sciences, nonprofit, or cannabis/CBD companies are not accepted.

Success Stories

Previous finalists have experienced significant growth and support through the Fast Pitch program:

“The Fast Pitch program was instrumental in helping us craft our elevator pitch. The mentorship we received was incredibly valuable and you’ll see it pay dividends for years to come. Our mentors were incredibly generous with their time, expertise, and support.”
Hannah Hong & Mollie Cha, Must Love

“My involvement with WFN has been a gift that keeps on giving. Not only did we get investors, we got mentors who have played a crucial role in our growth. I’ve gained not only a network of amazing, powerful women, but also new friends for life.”
Fran Dunaway, TomboyX CEO & Co-Founder

“All women entrepreneurs should apply despite the company size–even if they don’t make the final top 10. If you have a great business concept, there is still an opportunity to receive funding from investors who review your application.”
Sashee Chandran, Tea Drops Founder & CEO

Join the Community

Participating in the Fast Pitch competition not only offers financial rewards but also integrates you into a vibrant community of women entrepreneurs. This network provides ongoing support, resources, and opportunities to collaborate, ensuring that your startup journey is both accelerated and sustainable.

Ready to take your startup to the next level? Join the Seattle Foundations community today and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, mentors, and investors dedicated to your success.