By Sacramento City Express
The Sacramento Kings are now accepting applications for their eleventh annual Capitalize: Next Gen startup contest, the NBA’s first crowdsourced startup competition that offers local entrepreneurs a chance to gain publicity, receive mentorship and secure funding for their business.
Capitalize, in partnership with the City of Sacramento’s Office of Innovation and Economic Development, Pacific Office Automation, and Fidium Fiber, extends an opportunity for innovators to showcase new products and services on the NBA’s global stage.
This year, Capitalize: Next Gen has been reimagined to spotlight emerging entrepreneurs and innovators across the Sacramento region. Emerging and early-stage innovators ages 18–30 who are actively developing their ventures through a wide range of learning and growth pathways are invited to apply. These include traditional education, alternative programs, community-based learning, workforce development initiatives, apprenticeships, or self-directed learning.
Eligible participants must be located within a 75-mile radius of Golden 1 Center and may apply directly or be nominated by their educational institution.
“We are proud to be a sponsor of the Capitalize contest again,” said the City’s Development Project Manager Aubree Taylor. “Focusing in on the next generation of entrepreneurs helps spotlight on the talent growing right here.”
Entrepreneurs located within 75 miles of Golden 1 Center are eligible to apply. Applications close Feb. 6 at 11:59 p.m.
Select applicants will receive mentorship and coaching as they prepare for Pitch Day, where a panel of successful executives, investors and industry leaders will determine the four finalists. The final four chosen on Pitch Day will create videos about their startup for fan voting starting around March 16.
Fan voting will continue until halftime during the Sacramento Kings vs. the New Orleans Pelicans game on April 3. The winner will be announced in-game and will be awarded $10,000 for further development of their business.
Those interested in applying and learning more, should visit Kings.com/Capitalize.