LendIt has also always sought to feature fintech startups. Our first ever PitchIt @ LendIt was held at LendIt USA 2015 and since then we’ve brought the competition to both LendIt China and LendIt Europe in 2016. LendIt USA 2017 will mark the third year of our USA startup competition and we are very excited to announce our partnership with 500 Startups.
For those who are not aware of 500 Startups, they are a global venture capital seed fund headquartered in Silicon Valley. They have over $270 million in assets under management and have invested in over 1,500 technology startups since 2010. They have made over 150 investments in fintech companies in more than 20 countries. Because of their immense expertise and track record, they are a perfect partner for PitchIt.
We expect 2017 will be our biggest competition yet with hundreds of companies vying for a spot to pitch to the top VCs. Here is what Jason Jones, Co-Founder of LendIt had to say:
Innovation has never been more important for the Financial Services industry. PitchIt gives startups with fresh, important new ideas a valuable chance to build and grow their firms. Even as the fintech industry matures, we are seeing exciting areas of breakout opportunities which we look forward to discussing and experiencing at LendIt USA 2017. We are honored to partner with 500 Startups, a brand synonymous with global innovation and the startup culture, to grow PitchIt and help fuel innovation in fintech.
To apply to PitchIt 2017, firms must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a fintech company
- Two or more full-time co-founders/employees
- Maximum of 10 full-time employees
- Less than 3 years in business (companies founded before 2014 not eligible)
- Raised less than 4 million USD since launch date
- Must have a professional business website
- Everyone registering on behalf of a specific company must have an email with that company’s domain
Shortlisted companies will receive coaching from 500 Startups along with industry leaders. The eight finalists selected will receive free passes to LendIt USA, up to $1,000 for travel to PitchIt and 50% off Startup Zone booths. The winner will also receive a Bronze sponsorship at next year’s LendIt event.
Startups can apply for PitchIt @ LendIt starting today on the LendIt website.
