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Rising Stars: Where Success Begins

Rising Stars is Tech Nation’s pitch competition for early-stage tech startups.

We’re excited to announce – Rising Stars – the ultimate pitch competition designed for innovative early-stage tech startups is back…

 

This exciting event provides a valuable platform for tech startups to showcase their innovations locally, regionally, and nationally. Such exposure will substantially enhance their brand visibility and attract potential customers, partners, and investors.

Finalists will get the opportunity to showcase their businesses on the formidable London Tech Week (LTW) stage.

Rising Stars will open for applications 8 January 2024. Watch this space for updates!

Who is Rising Stars for?

We want to showcase the brightest and best that UK tech has to offer but applicants must meet a few simple criteria, including:

Incorporated between 1 and 3 years

Headquartered in the UK

A digital tech business with a product or service to sell*

At Seed to pre-Series A funding stage.  If the company is bootstrapped, maximum annual revenues are below £1.5 million

Able to demonstrate market traction

At least one active client or pilot

Ambition to scale

Able to commit to Rising Stars dates

Rising Stars Alumni

How it works

Early-stage tech startups from all over the UK will submit their virtual pitch via social media (official platform announced soon), alongside a questionnaire to understand more about their business and why they should be titled a Rising Star.

The judging panel, which will include some of the most influential entrepreneurs and investors, will select finalists to pitch in person at one of the six regional locations home to the leading startups: Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, North England, Midlands, South England.

Grand finalists will be selected to pitch at the prestigious London Tech Week on 10 June 2024.

What’s in it for your startup?

Unparalleled Exposure

Showcase your innovation on a local, regional, and national scale, whilst boosting your brand and attracting potential customers, partners, and investors

Tailored Support

Refine your business strategy and pitch capabilities with insights from experienced investors and industry experts

Networking with Influential Stakeholders

Build connections that lead to potential funding, strategic partnerships, and a supportive network

Global Recognition

Finalists will pitch to over 1000 attendees on the main stage at London Tech Week – a global celebration of tech, uniting the most innovative thinkers and tech talent

New to Rising Stars: People’s Choice Award

Your startup’s journey isn’t just about the pitch – it’s about rallying your community, sparking conversations, and leaving a lasting impression. That’s why this year, we have introduced the ‘People’s Choice Award’. 

Turn your social media strategy into a winning game plan! This unique accolade is determined by the power of your social media presence during the virtual pitches submitted to the competition. This is your chance to demonstrate the power of your startup’s community and claim a distinctive spot in Rising Stars history.

The more buzz, likes, shares, and comments your pitch receives, the stronger your candidacy for the People’s Choice Award. The winner will be chosen based on a combination of virtual pitch excellence and the impact generated on social media. 

The winner will join the finalists on stage at London Tech Week!

The Prizes

Final Winner

‘Preparing to Pitch’ support

Inclusion on the ‘Rising Stars to Watch List’

Winner’s PR campaign

PLUS a 60-minute branding session from Founders Makers

Grand Finalists

 ‘Preparing to Pitch’ support session

Inclusion on the ‘Rising Stars to Watch List’

Top 3 Finalists

30-minute branding session from Founders Makers

Regional Finalists

Finalists pack, including:

Resources, tools, discounts, and social sharing collateral to help elevate your startup

Pre-register for Rising Stars

Fill in the form and we’ll be in touch when applications open

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