AltCap launches small business competition in KC
September 9, 2015 | Ashley Jost
After a recent rebrand, Kansas City-based AltCap is back with a new small business competition aimed at local entrepreneurs.
AltCap program manager Christine Kahm said their first program is seeking to aid those businesses who aren’t looking for venture capital funds or angel investors, but who do need help getting their business idea off of the ground. AltCap – short for alternative capital – was the product of KCMO CDE’s rebrand last month.
“We’re trying to provide an opportunity for folks who are either in business and maybe struggling and want to grow, or those with an idea who need help getting it off of the ground,” Kahm said.
The program is a competition, and entering is free. Cash prizes for the top three finalists range from $500 to $5,000.
It is geared more toward “people who are looking to build a lifestyle and help provide for their family with their business idea,” Kahm said.
In addition to the cash prizes, the finalists also receive a scholarship to AltCap’s 16-week business-building workshop, marketing assistance, help finding office or retail space and consulting services.
The application is free, which Kahm said she hopes motivates anyone who is interested to consider it. Applicants have to submit a one- to two-minute video pitch about their business idea to AltCap by Sept. 30. Those that make it past round one will submit business proposals and financial templates to progress further in the competition.
2015 Startups to Watch
stats here
Related Posts on Startland News
Dundee Venture Capital tops goal with oversubscribed, $31M fund
In conjunction with welcoming a new partner to its ranks, regionally-focused fund Dundee Venture Capital recently surpassed its goal to raise a $30 million investment fund targeting Midwest startups. The Omaha-based fund announced that its third fund is oversubscribed at $31 million and will target startups in Kansas City, St Louis, Omaha, Lincoln, Denver, Indianapolis,…
Kauffman, UMKC symposium hopes to inspire and challenge social entrepreneurs
To spur more socially-minded ventures in the metro, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and University of Missouri-Kansas City are teaming up to host the fifth-annual Midwest Symposium on Social Entrepreneurship. Set for May 15 and 16, the two-day event will welcome about 125 attendees from the region, offering workshops, panel discussions and speakers. Tony Luppino,…
Fund Me, KC: The Fishing Caddy aims to hook good times for family, friends
Editor’s note: Startland News is continuing its new segment to highlight area entrepreneurs’ efforts to accelerate their businesses. This is an opportunity for entrepreneurs to share their stories to gain a little help from their supporters. If you or your startup is running a crowdfunding campaign, let us know by contacting news@startlandnews.com Who are you?…
Centriq Training buys St. Louis firm to become huge IT educator
After a recent acquisition, the Kansas City area’s largest information technology training company is set to become one of the biggest tech educators in the Midwest. Centriq Training announced Tuesday it purchased St. Louis-based Premier Knowledge Solutions in April for an undisclosed amount. The combined firms will offer virtual courses and in-person training in the…