Everyone enjoys watching a spirited competition, to be exposed to fresh new ideas and to root for local up-and-comers. Fintech South’s Innovation Challenge provides an opportunity for all three.
Ten startup fintech firms, selected from applications submitted earlier this year, will kick off TAG’s sixth annual innovation challenge later this week. Each of these early stage companies has significant Georgia roots and is looking to take the next step in its evolution. A $25,000 cash prize for the winner, and Fintech South main stage visibility for the top three are excellent steps in that direction.
Founders participate in a four-week program including educational sessions with leading experts on critical topics like venture capital, regulatory/compliance considerations, marketing and sales, and forging partnerships across Georgia’s thriving fintech ecosystem. They are also paired with mentors who help refine their pitches in preparation for the FinTech South competition.
At the Investor Preview segment of FinTech South on Monday, October 5, each of the ten companies will present to a panel of venture capitalists from across the country, who will offer candid feedback, ask questions, and share their own insights about investing in fintech startups.
The top three will proceed to the main stage on Thursday, October 8, pitching to a global audience and fielding live Q&A from Fintech South attendees. All audience members will then have the opportunity to cast their votes for the winner of the $25,000 grand prize.
Every year, the pitch competition is one of Fintech South’s biggest highlights. Given the latitude offered by our new virtual format, we’ve widened the lens to allow all companies to present to a broader audience. We’re sure you’ll enjoy seeing what these entrepreneurs have to offer- and the more chance they get to interact with the existing players in Georgia’s ecosystem, everybody wins.
You can find more about the ten Innovation Challenge finalists HERE.
And while you’re at it, don’t forget to register for Fintech South, which takes place October 5-9 and can be enjoyed from wherever you have an internet connection: https://www.fintechsouth.com/register/
Chris Stanley is SVP of Fintech, Payments Banking at Atlantic Capital Bank. Lucas Timberlake is a Partner at Fintech Ventures Fund; Lucas and Chris serve as Co-Chairs of this year’s Fintech South Innovation Challenge.