Application Deadline: November 7th, 2021
The Next Challenge for Media & Journalism
is a national startup competition seeking groundbreaking for-profit and nonprofit startups that will reinvent media in the coming decade.
Over 20 weeks and numerous digital events,
the Next Challenge will showcase early stage media startups and student-led media ventures based in the United States.
Eligibility
- Nonprofit and for-profit media startups based in the United States of America and U.S. Territories. A venture is considered U.S.-based if it is legally incorporated in the U.S. (not required for the student division) and if the majority of employees and/or contractors live in the United States.
- Teams of at least two people (Point of Contact + one team member)
- Ventures that have earned less than US$1,000,000 (gross revenue including philanthropic support) in the twelve months ending September 30th, 2021. This does not include investment dollars.
- Ventures that have made progress against their concept (e.g., a working prototype, minimum viable product.)
- Student Venture Division startups must be led by individuals currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in a U.S.-based college or university (proof of student status will be required for all Student Venture Division finalists.)
Application Procedure
Innovation: Is this an innovative idea? Does the startup propose a novel, disruptive or unique business concept? (30%)
Audience Impact: Does the startup have a well-defined target market? Will this venture have a significant positive impact on its intended audience? (20%)
Business Model: Does the plan indicate how the product/service will be distributed and have a realistic revenue and pricing model? Does the venture demonstrate the potential to grow and generate sustainable revenue? (20%)
Traction & Feasibility: Is there evidence that the business concept works? (20%)
Team: Does the team have relevant experience and understand their target audience(s)? (10%)
Official Website: The Next Challenge for Media & Journalism
