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?
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• 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