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Apply to Present
Applications for the 2026 Early Stage Conference have closed. Please consider attending the conference as you will still be able to network with investors and gain valuable insight from fellow founders and other venture professionals.
We are currently accepting applications to present at the 2026 Florida Early Stage Venture Conference. Please apply below:
Deadline to apply is May 15, 2026
Final selection will be made on May 19, 2026
Selected companies will be eligible for a share of $150,000 in award dollars provided by Space Florida!
See criteria for selection and award qualification below the application.
Startups may apply to the Forum any time. Our standing selection committee will review your application and those selected will be notified about future opportunities to present at Forum events.
Application Form
Criteria for Selection
The criteria for selection of the companies to be awarded prize money in the 2026 Florida Early Stage Venture Conference will be as follows:
a. Presenting and showcasing companies must be engaged in market sectors that
align with the strategic sectors of SF’s Aerospace & Aviation vision. All participating companies must be engaged in market sectors that align with the strategic sectors of SF, set forth in its Space Florida Innovation Partnerships Guidelines.
These sectors are: information technology, health technologies (including medical research and innovations), ISS and human life sciences, Artificial Intelligence, knowledge-based services and new products, satellite systems, communications and science payloads, ground and operations support systems, agriculture, climate/environmental monitoring, civil protection, cyber security, adventure tourism, clean/alternative energy applications. In addition, aircraft and spacecraft design, parts and assembly, engineering design and construction, structural materials and electronic assembly, data analytics. Also, innovations in planetary sustainability towards the development of nutritious food, clean water and energy, robotics – parts, design and assembly, unmanned aerial vehicles, surveillance, 3D printing and innovations, radiation protection, space transportation and advanced aerospace platforms, reconnaissance, & missile development.
b. Presenting and showcasing companies are start-up, innovative or disruptive companies, demonstrating the potential to attract third-party investment, and must demonstrate a pathway towards job creation.
c. Presenting and showcasing companies must maintain a corporate presence in Florida or establish a corporate presence in Florida on or before six calendar months after an award decision.