You will receive a confirmation email after submitting your application. The team will notify you within one week after applications close if your application has been accepted.

Unfortunately, no. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we are unable to accept late submissions once the deadline has passed.

Absolutely. If you have applied to a Road to LionCage (RTLC) or LionCage event before, you are welcome to apply again to any future event.

If you have previously won a prize at a RTLC or LionCage event, you may not apply for another RTLC or LionCage event for one calendar year from the date of that win. For example, if you won any award at the November 2025 LionCage event, you would not be eligible to apply again until November 2026.

If you are accepted to participate in the event, you will be asked to confirm your spot and schedule a mandatory coaching call with the team to help you prepare. You will also receive a pitch deck template.

For Road To LionCage Events we normally have 5 - 6 presenters each event and for the main LionCage event we 25 - 30.

Yes! That's what makes LionCage and the Road To LionCage a bit unique. Each presenter will have a coaching session with the team. How you use that time is up to you, but at least one coaching call is required.

You will have 5 minutes to present your pitch, followed by a 3-minute Q&A with the judges.

No. The pitch deck template is designed to guide your presentation within the RTLC/LionCage framework, but you are welcome to use any slide deck you prefer. You do not need to keep the template’s visual style. However, because the template aligns with the judging rubric, your presentation should still cover the key points the judges will be looking for.
*NOTE* All presentations must be submitted in PowerPoint.

Absolutely! After the application submission deadline closes a link to register to attend will be on the event page. Registration is free but required.

• Help entrepreneurs and startups across southeastern PA grow
• Increase engagement with entrepreneurs and the southeastern PA innovation ecosystem
• Increase engagement with Penn State alums
• Increase engagement with the corporate community
• Opportunity to provide coaching/advising services to current and aspiring entrepreneurs
• Increase awareness of Penn State’s LaunchBox, CCEDC, and i2n

While Penn State and CCEDC/i2n are each investing in the administration and overall success of the project, sponsorships are available to support and this project whole also providing unique benefits for sponsoring organizations. Learn more about sponsorships here!