Frequently Asked Questions

Here are frequently asked questions about the LionCage Pitch Competition!

How many presenters do you expect and how much time will they have to pitch?

We are planning for 30, and each will present for 5 minutes and have 3 minutes of Q&A with the judges.

Can you share more about the four categories?

Our four categories are:

  1. New Startup

    • Early stage innovators who are just getting started.  They have an idea, maybe a prototype or business plan, but are still building their plans

  2. Experienced Startup

    • Those who have been in business and may be revenue-generating with a product or service on the market or deep in development.

  3.  Student

    • For high school and college students.  Must register with “edu” email. (Note that presenters under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.)

  4. Social Impact Initiative - In partnership with United Way of Chester County.

    • For organizations that target enhancements to societal challenges through a new or established service, product or solution. (In partnership with United Way of Chester County.)

Are there coaching services offered to each entrepreneur?

We’ll offer to have a “pre-pitch” coaching/advising session for each entrepreneur. This will be optional, and the coaching can be provided by a combination of i2n staff/volunteers, a Penn State staff member, or a representative from one of our sponsoring organizations/companies.

Why are Penn State and i2n offering this program?

For Penn State, this is consistent with the mission of the Penn State Launch Box, an initiative offered at each of the 22 commonwealth campuses to help all community members (University affiliation not required) who want to turn their ideas into business.

For i2n, an initiative of the CCEDC, our mission is to make southeastern Pennsylvania the best possible place for early-stage and technology-driven companies to start, grow, and thrive. When we learned that each team was planning a pitch competition, we collaborated to create and deliver the LionCage.

In addition, our goals are to:
  • 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

How is the LionCage funded and where is the $30,000 prize money coming from?

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!

Is your question still not answered? Please contact us!