Judging Criteria

VENTURE CONCEPT (ALL Tracks)

• How would you rate the level of innovation in this concept?
• Overall, how viable would you consider this venture proposal?
• Were you able to understand the value proposition clearly?
• Does this concept have the potential to compete in the marketplace?
• Does the team demonstrate that they understand their market/industry?

PRESENTATION (ALL Tracks)

• How compelling (confident, energetic, convincing) was the presentation?
• Did the presentation adequately focus on key aspects of the venture given the limited time frame?
• Did the team appear professional, well-prepared, and cohesive?
• How well did the team demonstrate a full understanding of the venture?
• How effective were visuals/charps/props in aiding the presentation?

EXTENDED EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (ALL Tracks)

• Does the summary adequately address key aspects of the venture (value prop, revenue model, financials, etc.)?
• Is the summary clearly organized and professionally written?
• How well does the summary communicate a vision with a roadmap of milestones to get there?
• How professional is the layout and design of the document?
• Does the summary show some evidence of primary or secondary research?

TRACK SPECIFIC Questions (Commercial- High Tech)

• How would you rate the longevity/stability of this venture in a rapidly changing market?
• How capable does the team appear to be in developing this product/service?

TRACK SPECIFIC Questions (Commercial- Low Tech)

• What potential does this startup have to reach profitability?
• How well does this product/service differentiate itself from competitors?

TRACK SPECIFIC Questions (Social/Sustainable)

• How clearly defined is the purpose of this social venture?
• How well can this venture address the social need/problem indicated?

Track Finals/Finals Questions (not applicable in Elevator Pitch or Semifinals)

• How well would Carolina Challenge prize money be utilized for this venture?
• How likely would you be to invest in this company?