The 49-Minute Pitch Competition highlights bold ideas from founders in 49er Foundry, UNC Charlotte’s student startup incubator.

In this fast-paced event, student entrepreneurs will pitch their ventures to a panel of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders while competing for recognition and prizes.

• Identification of Problem and Opportunity
  Clarity: Is the problem clearly defined and well-understood? Consider: Is there data or research evidence to support their existence and importance of the problem? Has the student done a little bit of work on the problem identification?
• Customer and Market Understanding
  Target Audience: Did they identify a potential customer segment? Initial Target Market? Consider: Does the pitch demonstrate an understanding of the target customers' needs and pain points? I
• Solution and Innovation
  Innovation: Does the proposed solution address the stated problem in a unique manner. Consider:Feasibility-does the solution have the ability to become operational? Does the solution effectively solve the problem?
• Progress and Validation
  Progression: Have the founder tested their innovation? Consider: Have the founder completed any customer discovery interviews, prototypes, testing. Are the milestones realistic and attainable within the stated time frame?
• Idea Validity and Execution Plan
  Sustainability: Does the idea have the potential to be sustainable long term? Consider: Are next steps clear and achievable?
• Pitch Delivery
  Consider: Clarity, Confidence, Storytelling, Acceptance of feedback, Clearly able to answer questions and Timing