The John F. Baugh Center for Entrepreneurship and Free Enterprise is thrilled to host its eighth annual Baylor New Venture Competition on February 22-23, 2019 at Baylor University’s Foster Campus for Business and Innovation. This two-day business plan and elevator pitch competition showcases collegiate entrepreneurs from across the globe. A bonus day is offered for teams to receive additional feedback. Teams have the chance to win cash prizes and vital resources to catalyze and grow their business. Buckle up! The final destination for this adventure is a successfully profitable business that impacts the world. The program, underwritten by an anonymous gift to Baylor University and the Hankamer School of Business, provides students with an immersive and transformative adventure. Since 2012, over 500 student entrepreneurs have applied and nearly $1 million in cash and prizes has been awarded. We are successful because hundreds of experienced entrepreneurs, business leaders and sponsors have supported this transforming encounter.

The John F. Baugh Center for Entrepreneurship and Free Enterprise is thrilled to host its eighth annual Baylor New Venture Competition on February 22-23, 2019 at Baylor University’s Foster Campus for Business and Innovation. This two-day business plan and elevator pitch competition showcases collegiate entrepreneurs from across the globe. A bonus day is offered for teams to receive additional feedback. Teams have the chance to win cash prizes and vital resources to catalyze and grow their business. Buckle up! The final destination for this adventure is a successfully profitable business that impacts the world. The program, underwritten by an anonymous gift to Baylor University and the Hankamer School of Business, provides students with an immersive and transformative adventure. Since 2012, over 500 student entrepreneurs have applied and nearly $1 million in cash and prizes has been awarded. We are successful because hundreds of experienced entrepreneurs, business leaders and sponsors have supported this transforming encounter.

Applications for OwlSpark Class 7 (Summer 2019) will be open! If you have an innovative technology or business idea, and you’re interested in spending your summer launching your startup, this is a great opportunity. Applications close on Sunday, March 3 at 11:59 p.m.

*About the OwlSpark Accelerator Program*
OwlSpark is a premier accelerated learning experience for promising startup teams to validate and refine business models in preparation for launch. OwlSpark helps build and shape the entrepreneurial capacity of Rice entrepreneurs by providing a robust curriculum, co-working space, and a diverse mentor network over 12 weeks during the summer.

*Eligible Team Composition*
OwlSpark is open to students, staff, and faculty across all schools and all disciplines, as well as alumni within five years, who have an interest in building leadership skills and capacity as innovation-driven entrepreneurs. Eligible startup teams must have two to five founders, and at least one founder must be affiliated with Rice University. International students are eligible, but must secure authorization from the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) prior to the start of the program.

*Preparing for the Application Process*
To prepare your startup team for the application process, we have laid out important information surrounding the accelerator program, team composition, and expectations. Be sure to review the information thoroughly.

*Learn more, review the application questions and pitch video criteria, and apply at www.owlspark.com/apply. If you have any questions, please reach out to us at team@owlspark.com!