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We’re inviting students across North America to submit a startup idea pitch deck for a chance to win $1,000 USD and private office hours with a Managing Partner at Forum Ventures.
As part of Forum Ventures’ commitment to making the B2B software journey more accessible, we run a quarterly scholarship competition that gives students interested in entrepreneurship real-world exposure to how early-stage startups, including SaaS and AI startups, are evaluated by venture capital firms.
Start with an insight, a problem, or a unique perspective, and show us how it could become a real B2B software, SaaS, or AI business.
Turn your idea into a clear, structured investor pitch. You’ll follow a real VC-style framework and explain the problem, solution, market, and how this idea is venture scalable.
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Your submission is reviewed the same way we evaluate early-stage startups. Strong thinking, clear storytelling, and sharp assumptions matter more than polish.
A cash award recognizing the strongest pitch submission.
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A 30-minute private session with a Forum Ventures Partner to get direct feedback on your idea and pitch deck.
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If the idea already exists as a company, strong submissions may also be invited to share more with our investment team. No guarantees.
Disclaimer: Forum Ventures reserves the right not to select a winner. A prize will be awarded only if,
in our sole discretion, a submission meets the evaluation criteria and overall quality bar. See full terms and conditions.
• Current students at accredited colleges or universities in North America
• Undergraduate or graduate students
• Individuals or small 2-3 person teams (one submission & prize per team)
• You do not need a registered company to apply
1. Create a pitch deck using one of the provided guides
2. Use the evaluation criteria below as a guide for what we’re looking for
3. Keep it to 10 slides or fewer
4. Team and traction slides will not be considered
5. Make sure you're considering the evaluation criteria below
6. Submit your PDF using the application form below
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Note: Your idea must focus on B2B software, SaaS, or AI solutions. Consumer-facing products are not eligible.
eam & traction will not be evaluated as part of your application, since it's unlikely these exist yet.
What types of ideas is Forum Ventures looking for?
We’re looking for ideas that could become B2B software, SaaS, or AI companies. This includes industry-specific tools, horizontal software used across industries, and products that improve how companies operate.
Does my idea need to be fully built?
You do not need a registered company, product, or traction to apply. We evaluate the strength of the idea and the clarity of your thinking.
Can I apply with a consumer app?
No. This competition is focused exclusively on B2B software, SaaS, and AI solutions. Consumer-facing products are not eligible.
Can I apply as a team?
Yes. You may apply individually or as a small team. Please submit one deck per idea.
Is a winner guaranteed?
No. A winner is not guaranteed. The prize will only be awarded if a submission meets the evaluation criteria and overall quality bar, at our sole discretion.
If my idea already exists as a company, can I still apply?
Yes. If the idea already exists as a company, you may still apply. Strong submissions may be invited to share more with our investment team. This does not guarantee investment.
What if I miss the deadline?
We run this scholarship program every three months, so you'll have a chance to submit your idea soon after the winner is announced.
What are the terms of the competition?
Full eligibility rules, submission requirements, judging criteria, and legal terms are outlined in our official Terms and Conditions. Please review them before applying.
