Apply to pitch your company at Forum events.
Presenting Company Selection Information and Criteria
Each application is carefully reviewed by an investor-led selection committee. While there are no strict rules and guidelines for acceptance, the committee generally looks for companies that fit most of the following criteria:
Florida-based, or other strong Florida connection such as Florida-based executives/employees, board members, investors, major clients, etc.
In an industry with significant growth potential and active VC investment
Revenue traction, typically in the ~$3M+/yr range. Companies with lower revenue are encouraged to apply if other attributes are present, such as management with successful venture/exit history, substantial partnerships, significant market adoption, regulatory approvals (healthcare companies), etc.
Full-time, committed management
Ready for Series A or later equity capital investment
The #1 connection to VC funding in Florida and beyond.
How The Forum Helps Founders
Requirements to Pitch
Company Industry and Stage
The Florida Venture Forum (“Forum”) seeks Florida-based companies representing an array of industries that are entering or have reached, at a minimum, the commercialization phase. This phase of a company’s development cycle is typically characterized by the transformation of a technology and/or business model into a viable commercial business enterprise as demonstrated via market traction (i.e. pilot testing with target customers / nominal revenue).
Investment funding at this stage is generally sought to finance, amongst others, team expansion, further product development, working capital, and sales and marketing initiatives. The Forum recognizes that the development cycle for life science firms may differ and traction may be exhibited via other milestones, such as progression with the regulatory process. Thus, consideration as it relates to stage, will be afforded to companies within this market.
Management
Companies should have fully committed leadership whose primary focus is upon the development and growth of the business venture.
Business Planning
Companies should have completed the business planning process and have documents available for review by potential investors that fully describe, at a minimum, the following aspects of the venture: the market and associated value-proposition, competitive landscape, relevant management credentials and experience, financial pro-formas, and historical capitalization (as applicable).
Equity Investment
The company should be ready for outside equity capital investment to further the development of the business venture. Development should have progressed to the point that potential investors can conduct reasonable due diligence and evaluate the investment opportunity.