Startup302 Funding Competition Focused on Underrepresented Startups, Accepting Applications Now through Feb. 12

December 30, 2020 – 

WILMINGTON, Del. — Startup302’s application window is now open. Applications for the funding competition will be accepted through Feb. 12 from technology-enabled startups with at least one founding team member from an underrepresented group.

Startups in advanced materials, agriculture, bioscience, business/financial services, chemistry and esports are especially encouraged to participate. There is no cost to enter, thanks to support from the State of Delaware and other sponsors.

Startup302 Focus on Underrepresented Founders 

Underrepresented founders include women and African Americans, Latin Americans and Native Americans. According to Ariel Gruswitz, Delaware Prosperity Partnership’s director of innovation, Startup302 aims to strengthen Delaware’s innovation ecosystem by improving access to funding and mentorship for underrepresented entrepreneurs while fostering diverse perspectives, promoting inclusive and equitable consideration and attracting diverse communities of founders to the region.

Startup302 will consist of two rounds: an application submission and evaluation round followed by a pitch round that will take place virtually on April 29. Competitors will vie for more than $200,000 in grant-based and in-kind prizes while also benefiting from engagement with investors, industry mentors, and key influencers.

Delaware Prosperity Partnership’s Startup302 partners include First Founders leader Garry Johnson III, venture capital advisor Pedro Moore, the Delaware Sustainable Chemistry Alliance, the University of Delaware’s Horn Entrepreneurship Program and Small Business Development Center and Delaware State University’s College of Business. 

Details and the application are at startup302.org. Questions may be directed to Noah Olson of DPP at nolson@choosedelaware.com or Mike Rinkunas of Horn Entrepreneurship at rinkunas@udel.edu.

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About Delaware Prosperity Partnership

Delaware Prosperity Partnership leads Delaware’s economic development efforts to attract, grow and retain businesses; to build a stronger entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem; and to support private employers in identifying, recruiting and developing talent. The DPP team works with site selectors, executives and developers focused on where to locate or grow a business and helps with reviewing potential sites, cost-of-living analyses and funding opportunities, including available tax credits and incentives. DPP advances a culture of innovation in Delaware, working with innovators and startups to spotlight and celebrate successes and connect them with the resources they need to succeed. DPP and its partnerships throughout Delaware support and advance the missions of companies of all sizes and sectors. For more information, visit choosedelaware.com.