APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR LAUNCH AND CONCEPT COMPETITION – October 11, 2016 

“Concept Stage“ Competition (Douglas County companies only)

• The concept stage of a company is the early, developmental stage. During this stage, you have an idea and are exploring the feasibility of building on that idea. Likely you have “proof of concept,” but may not have any revenue. You are likely still working through questions such as determining how to build the product or deliver the service, identifying your customers and competitors, distributors and possible partners. Douglas County Companies that are “in the market” already, but are not yet ready for investment are also welcome to compete.

 “Launch Stage“ Competition

• A launch stage company would typically have all of the following items in place: seed or initial funding raised, proof of concept and market established. In most industries, some revenue or evidence of customer’s willingness to pay is likely needed. Company owners must be interested in equity investment and interested in company growth. 

Consider: The competition and the process itself can have a valuable learning experience for applicants.

“Competing for the RAIN investment helped me think about my business in new ways.  I had sold my product before – but never thought about pitching my business.  I gained new insights into may strategy, I learned a ton when and why I might want to bring in equity investors, and it helped us position for growth.  It was a great experience.”