Seed Capital Pitch Competition

The Good Soil Movement's Seed Capital Pitch Competition, presented by Wells Fargo and supported by Hello Alice, is a significant investment initiative designed to empower small businesses ready for growth. This program provides an exciting platform for entrepreneurs to gain exposure, compete for crucial funding, and present their ventures to investors and a national audience. The competition is a core component of the Good Soil Forum, demonstrating a clear mission to foster the development and expansion of small businesses. The target beneficiaries of this program are entrepreneurs who are leading executives (Founders) of small, for-profit businesses located and registered in the fifty United States, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico. The program specifically aims to support businesses that have not received more than $1M in previous funding, have employees earning no more than $100K annually, and maintain total debt under $200K (excluding convertible notes). This focus ensures that the grant reaches businesses that are genuinely in a growth phase and can significantly benefit from the capital injection. The program prioritizes businesses that are actively seeking to scale and are ready to present their vision in a live, in-person pitch at the Good Soil Forum in Dallas, TX. Excluded industries include adult entertainment, firearms, alcohol (except restaurants), gambling, multi-level marketing, and illegal activities, ensuring that the funding aligns with ethical business practices. This selectivity helps focus the program's impact on businesses that can contribute positively to their communities and the economy. The expected outcomes include the distribution of substantial prizes, with First Place receiving $200,000, Second Place $100,000, Third Place $75,000, and a Dallas-Based Business Award of $50,000. These awards serve as measurable results of the program's success in providing critical seed capital. Beyond the direct funding, the competition aims to increase the visibility of these small businesses, connect them with investors, and foster a network of entrepreneurial support, ultimately contributing to their long-term sustainability and growth.