Eligibility Requirements

Only startups (not yet operational) and emerging businesses (less than three years old) may apply.
Existing early stage businesses must be located in Essex County or Merrimack Valley, or commit to locating on the North Shore or Merrimack Valley.
If the plan is for a startup business, that business must commit to being located on the North Shore or in the Merrimack Valley.
Businesses with existing professional venture investment are not eligible.
Contestants shall have no more than $200,000 investment (exclusive of real estate) from outside sources other than professional venture capital.
Business must have plans to grow to at least 5 full time or FTE employees within two years.

Your business idea must be original work that you’ll be able to fully disclose.