Wayne State University

Aim Higher

E2 Detroit Elevator Pitch Competition

This page will be updated from time to time, please revisit it periodically to get the latest information

Application Rules and Procedures:

  • You must be a current Wayne State University student to apply.
  • You must apply, and be selected, to compete in the Elevator Pitch Competition.
  • The application for the competition is here: http://e2detroit.wayne.edu/competition/application.doc
  • Completed applications should be emailed directly to Eric Stief, Director of Venture Development, email address: eric.stief@wayne.edu
  • Applications are due NO LATER than October 9, 2009 at noon. Selected applicants will be notified no later than October 13, 2009. Selection decisions are final.
  • Email Eric Stief, eric.stief@wayne.edu, with any questions.

Rules for the Elevator Pitch Competition:

  • You must apply, and be selected to compete in the Elevator Pitch Competition. Selected applicants will be notified via email no later than October 13.
  • You must be in attendance and on time for the competition. If you are not present when your name is called you are disqualified.
  • Elevator Pitches must be NO MORE than 60 seconds in length. Presenters will be stopped and penalized if they go over 60 seconds. (A time clock will be provided)
  • Elevator Pitches will be judged by a panel of judges. Winners will be selected based on judge scores and decisions are final.

Additional Information and FAQs:

What is this competition?
The E2 Detroit Elevator Pitch Competition is a competitive event in which several selected Wayne State students will present 60 second elevator pitches in which they describe their idea for a new company.

What is an elevator pitch?
An elevator pitch is a 60 second concise summary of a business opportunity that is typically used to quickly pitch business concepts to potential investors. There are many online resources that you can find that can help you prepare an elevator pitch, two such examples are found here:

What are the prizes?
All selected presenters will be scored by a panel for cash prizes.

First place: $300
Second place: $200
Third place: $100

In addition, each selected competitor will receive complimentary access to the full E2 Detroit program, and will also receive an autographed copy of Chris Gardner’s book “Start Where You Are."

Prize money will be split in the event of scoring ties.

What are the scoring criteria?
Judges will use a standard form score the elevator pitches and select the winner. The form is found here: http://e2detroit.wayne.edu/competition/scoring.doc

When is it?
The Elevator Pitch Competition will be held on October 15, from 11:15 – 12:30 at McGregor Memorial Conference Center, as a part of the day-long E2 Detroit conference.