2022 Dempsey Startup Competition

Screening Round Judge Criteria

Review the assigned 5–7 page executive summaries and evaluate using the below criteria.

Judging Criteria: OVERALL IMPRESSION OF THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (1-5 points) * Does the summary adequately describe the idea—does the idea make sense? * Has the team adequately described the pain in the marketplace? * Do you believe the team has presented a feasible solution? * Is the summary well written and succinct? * Does the summary create excitement?

Judging Criteria: MARKET OPPORTUNITY (1-5 points) * Have they adequately described the market and economic opportunity? * Have they clearly stated their value proposition? Is it a sustainable model?

Judging Criteria: COMPETITIVE STRATEGY (1-5 points) * Has the team completely analyzed its competitive space? * Does the summary clearly identify the company’s initial competitive advantage or differentiator? * Does the team have an adequate strategy for defending their market position?

Judging Criteria: GO TO MARKET STRATEGY (1-5 points) * Is it clear how the company will reach its initial customer? * Does the summary clearly identify a sales strategy? * Is the distribution plan clearly defined and reasonable?

Judging Criteria: MANAGEMENT TEAM (1-5 points) * Does this management team have the skills required to execute the plan? * Page | 2 Dempsey Startup Competition 2022 * Does this team have the experience to lead a new venture? * If this management team is weak in skills or experience, do they list the advisors or mentors who can help them

Judging Criteria: TRACTION (1-5 points) * Has the team made progress toward any milestones (licenses, patents, etc…) * Has the company signed customers and/or channel partners? * Has the company booked any revenue?

Judging Criteria: FINANCIALS (1-5 points) * Are the financials consistent with the overall plan? * Are the assumptions realistic? * Are contingencies and exit strategies addressed? * Does the plan describe the funding/resources required to execute on the plan?

Judging Criteria: SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (1-5 points) * Does the entry have the potential to make a significant positive impact on society? Will it improve * the quality of life for people and our planet and help contribute to a better, safer, and more prosperous world? * Does the team discuss measurable efforts to minimize consumption, use, and byproduct waste, while bolstering profitability/cost containment?

score between 0 - 40

5,5,5,5,5,5,5,5 = 40