Applications now open for the 6th annual Klaus Startup Challenge!
Named in honor of Christopher W. Klaus, the Klaus Startup Challenge is an entry-level pitch competition designed to prepare beginner entrepreneurs for future competitions and funding opportunities. Three winning teams will each earn $150,000 toward their startup! Please apply by the deadline (Monday, February 1st) by 11:59 pm.
Competition Description:- As part of the Startup Challenge, three winning teams will receive an investment of $150,000 to kickstart your idea, as well as the support of the Fusen team as your strategic advisor to help you grow and scale your company.
- There will be three rounds for the competition:
- Round 1: Teams must complete online application by February 1st and have at least one team member participate in all challenge workshops, mentor meetings, and pitch practices.
- Round 2: Teams that have participated in all required activities will submit a 90 second pitch video by April 8th to be considered for participating in the final demo day event.
- Round 3: A team of judges will select the final 20+ teams that will pitch in front of a live panel of judges and guests at Demo Day on April 22nd.
Challenge Rules:- At least 1 co-founder for each team must be a current College of Computing student (BS, MS, or PhD).
- Applicants must be available to participate in-person in the live event on April 22nd, 2026.
- In order to participate in the live event on April 22nd, a team MUST participate in all workshops, Mentor Office Hours, and the Mock Pitch Workshop.
- All Klaus Startup Challenge Online applications must be completed and submitted by 11:59pm EST on February 1st.
Materials Needed for Application:- Name, email, and graduation (anticipated or actual) info of all team members
- Company/idea vision statement (in 35 words or less)
- Team photo (optional but recommended).
Upon completion of the application and acceptance into the Klaus Startup Challenge, participants will receive an invitation to join the Klaus Startup Challenge 2026 accelerator on the Fusen Platform. Here, teams will be able to schedule office hours with mentors and access additional resources throughout the challenge. Please note that participants should wait to receive the specific invite link for their team to join the accelerator.
Please complete and submit the application, in its entirety, no later than 11:59pm EST on February 1st.
Questions? Check our FAQ. For any additional questions, contact Spencer Banko.
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