Mark Essex was just 24 years old when he embarked on a journey that would unknowingly shape the rest of his life. Reflecting on the early days, he admits, “If […]
#StartupGVL Launchpad
New businesses, whether a side hustle or venture-backed, need advice and encouragement to grow and flourish.
#StartupGVL Launchpad, first introduced in 2022, is an event designed to showcase, celebrate and help launch Greenville’s up-and-coming early-stage businesses.
Each year, NEXT puts out an open call to all Upstate entrepreneurs to apply for and compete in this unique event, with the hopes they could win valuable support to expand or launch their business.
How does it work?
Participating startups can apply for any or all of the resource offerings donated by local organizations, but they can win only one. Supporting sponsors agree to work with their winning startup and provide a pre-set scope of donated support.
When is this event?
This event takes place once a year in the spring. Applications for the next event will open in early 2024.
A look back on
2023
#StartupGVL Launchpad
The second annual #StartupGVL Launchpad event took place on Thursday, April 6th, and was an incredible celebration of early-stage innovation and entrepreneurship. With over 50 applicants for prizes in 7 categories, 7 winners were selected to receive prize packages that, in total, represent more than $95k.
Our 2023 prize packages:
Provided by Elliott Davis, this is the prize you need to take a professional look at your business planning and documentation and get expert recommendations on where to improve. This package includes business transformation options,
consultation on how to improve efficiencies, and financial advice around strategy and growth.
Provided by SLANT, this package is perfect for new businesses who need expert help in putting their best branding foot forward. This package includes strategic and creative design services such as brand strategy, logo design, and/or branded presentation deck to help your company really impress.
Provided by Find Great People, this package helps fledging teams hone their hiring strategy and build a company culture worth sticking around for. This package includes a leadership/team assessment, culture assessment, and diversity education.
Provided by Wyche Law Firm, this package can help you get your ducks (and documents) in a row as you solidify your company's legal existence. This package includes assets such as initial legal consultation, formation of a business entity, and operating agreement among founders.
Provided by DFS Creative Concepts, this package is the solution for business who need to get their name out there digitally, particularly when it comes to building traction. This package includes consultative services such as website and search engine optimization, programmatic advertising and retargeting strategy, and other services to bring users into the funnel.
Provided by South Carolina Research Authority, these seed grants are exclusively available to innovation-based companies. This package is available to innovation-lead,
for-profit teams with high-potential for economic impact.
