What is Slush GIA?

Slush Global Impact Accelerator (GIA) is a program created in collaboration with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland and other multiple partners globally. The purpose is to support impact startups and showcase the exciting business opportunities in emerging markets, which are also vital for implementing the Agenda 2030 and solving complex challenges.

Visit: http://www.slush.org/gia/ for more information.

What is the PitchIT Slush GIA Qualifier Event?

The Caribbean Mobile Innovation Project (CMIP) is a global hub partner for the Slush GIA. As a partner we are responsible for hosting a local pitch competition in the Caribbean to select the three best Startups to advance to the final of the international competition. Slush representatives will then select the startup to participate in the Slush Global Impact Accelerator Bootcamp which will be held in Helsinki Finland between November 25, 2017 to December 2, 2017.

Who can enter the competition?

Early Stage Startups from Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago that:

  1. Have the vision to solve challenges globally
  2. Have a solution that supports the sustainable development goals (SDGs)
  3. Are registered in their country
  4. Generated revenues and or funding not exceeding 1 million £
  5. Have the potential to scale
  6. Have the skills and drive to succeed
  7. Have at least one working prototype
  8. Have participated in an entrepreneurial training programme

What must my entry include?

Applicants will be required to:

  1. Complete an online application form
  2. Upload and submit a 12 Month Profit and Loss Statement
  3. Upload and submit screenshot of app or prototype and or link to website
  4. Upload and submit a Pitch Deck that is aligned to the following Judging Criteria:
CriteriaDescription
ProblemDescribe the problem your startup or solution is trying to solve. Who is experiencing this problem? What data do you have to support your claim (stats, research, links)?
SolutionBrief Description of blurb of solution Your solution should be aligned with at least ONE of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Visit (http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sustainable-development-goals/)and click on the relevant icons to learn more about the SDGs.   What is unique and different about your
solution. Include a Screenshots app or prototype of
your solution in pitch deck. (Can be shown on
separate slides)
Impact StatementHow does your solution  make a difference in the lives of people, communities, and the environment? How will you be able to measure impact – now and in the future? Impact effectively integrated into overall business model.
Market PotentialIdentify and describe your Total Addressable Market (TAM), your Served Addressable Market (SAM) and your potential revenue.  
Funding & Revenue ModelWhether your startup is a for-profit or not-for-profit entity, you should be generating revenue or funding. List your current revenue streams Include unit costs
Traction & AchievementsSales Funnel: Number of leads, subscribers Number of current clients or customers Key Partnerships Total Revenue to date Media exposure
The Ask, Use of Funds & Projected MilestonesRealistic ask with clear explanation and visual timeline for spending funds and acquiring key resources

How does the selection process work?

After all the applications have been reviewed, the top fifteen (15) Startups will be invited to pitch in front of a panel of expert Judges. At the end of the event, the top three startups will be selected to advance to final selection round.

If selected, who will cover the cost of my trip?

Travel and Accommodations and Meals will be covered by the Slush GIA Team. If you selected as one of the top three finalists, your flight itinerary, Hotel Accommodations will be sent to you via email.

What cost will I have to cover for my trip?

Finalists will have to cover the cost for visa fees and any other personnel related costs during the trip.

Do I need a visa to apply for this competition?

Flights to Helsinki are usually routed through the US. As a result you will need a US Visa for your trip. You will also have to apply for a Schengen Visa to travel through some parts of Europe.

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