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What is CoinDesk PitchFest?
Consensus is the world's largest, longest-running and most influential gathering that brings together all sides of the cryptocurrency, blockchain and Web3 communities.
At the heart of Consensus lies CoinDesk PitchFest – our dynamic startup competition that spotlights the most promising early-stage Web3 companies from around the world in a live onstage pitching battle.
PitchFest is a celebration of tomorrow's companies by today's builders. It's your chance to showcase your startup to the largest gathering of Web3 investors in the world.
Who is it for?
We're seeking 40 of the most promising early-stage crypto, blockchain, and Web3 startups to step onto the stage in Austin. If your startup is redefining the Web3 landscape, we want you!
Eligibility for PitchFest:
To apply for PitchFest you must be a registered Consensus startup.
- Less than $5M in funding
- Less than 5 years old
- Focused on Web3 or blockchain-oriented companies or projects
This is your moment to shine in front of those who are funding the future of Web3.
Meet The Drapers
Additionally, four startups will be selected from the 40 PitchFest finalists to join an episode of the TV series "Meet the Drapers" filming live on the Consensus floor! The show gives entrepreneurs and founders the chance to pitch their ideas to legendary VC Tim Draper and his family, with the winner securing a $50,000 investment and an invitation to the finale for a shot at the $1 million grand prize.
PitchFest Information
We are on the lookout for the 40 most promising early-stage crypto, blockchain and Web3 startups, teams and creators who are eager to take center stage at Consensus in Austin. The competition is open to startups, chains, teams, projects or communities that meet the following criteria:
- Have received less than $5 million in funding
- Are Less than 5 years old
- Are Web3-oriented companies or projects
To apply for PitchFest you must be a registered Consensus startup.
The PitchFest winner will receive:
- Prominent exposure across CoinDesk's various media platforms & social handles
- Technical 1:1 sessions with Google Cloud's Web3 product leaders
- Two VIP Piranha Passes for Consensus 2024
- More prizes to be announced
To apply for PitchFest you must be a registered Consensus startup.
PitchFest Submission: Startups should submit their applications for PitchFest via the Startup portal by April 19, 2024.
A core component of your product must be related to Web3 or blockchain technology.
Additionally, your startup must be less than five years old and have raised less than $5 million in funding.
PitchFest Selection - Group Round:
A panel of CoinDesk experts will evaluate all applications and make their decisions by April 19, 2024. The chosen 40 founders will have the opportunity to deliver their three-minute pitch live on stage at Consensus on the 30th and 31st May 2024, followed by a brief Q&A session. Distinguished judges from the industry will then select the finalists.
PitchFest Live - Final Round:
The six winning founders will present their pitches on the final day of Consensus. The CoinDesk PitchFest 2024 champion will be crowned during this thrilling finale.
For a detailed understanding of the rules and regulations, please refer to the CoinDesk PitchFest Official Rules here.
Winning PitchFest was one of the highlights of my year. It was an incredible experience to get on the stage, present the business and interact with expert judges. It not only boosted our energy but also made Rise gain exposure and get more clients. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
A bigger and better Consensus PitchFest, now entering its third year of showcasing rising stars and breakout innovations in the crypto arena, finds a new, dedicated home on the New Voices stage within Startup Village. A novel approach opens up the competition to an expanded selection of 40 finalists over three days, drawing from a wider array of startups attending Consensus, with offers of discounted tickets, specialized booths and access to a unique network of VCs.
“As a returning judge, I'm thrilled to be back at CoinDesk PitchFest in 2024. This event has consistently showcased the brightest talents and most groundbreaking ideas. I've witnessed firsthand the evolution of this industry, and it's remarkable to see the progress these startups make year after year. With the potential of blockchain and Web3, the possibilities are boundless, and I'm eagerly anticipating what these talented entrepreneurs will bring to the stage. Let's crown the 2024 champion and continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in this exciting space.
