FAQ: TiE Oregon Collegiate Startup Challenge
Are you thinking about applying to the TiE Collegiate Startup Challenge? Below are answers to the some common questions from student, faculty, and alumni entrepreneurs across Oregon and Southwest Washington about entering this competition.
❓ What is the TiE Collegiate Startup Challenge?
The Collegiate Startup Challenge is a statewide pitch competition hosted by TiE Oregon as part of the Pitch Oregon series. It provides college and university-affiliated entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their ventures, gain visibility, and compete for equity investments, in-kind services from local partners and potentially cash prizes.
❓ Who can apply?
Applicants must meet these requirements:
Funding Stage: Raised less than $1 million and not yet completed a Series A.
Business Stage: Beyond concept stage, with a prototype, beta test, or early customer feedback.
University Affiliation: At least two team members connected to an accredited Oregon or Southwest Washington university or college (students, faculty, or alumni).
Team Requirement: Must be team-led. Single-founder ventures are not eligible.
❓ Do I have to be a current student to apply?
You don’t have to be a student. Alumni and faculty-led ventures are encouraged to apply as long as the company is traded sector and tech or tech-enabled. The competition is designed to showcase innovation from across the higher-ed community.
❓ What types of companies are eligible?
We welcome any traded sector, technology, or tech-enabled business. Examples include:
Student-founded startups developing apps or software
University spinouts launching innovative products
Early-stage ventures scaling new technologies or services
❓ What are the key dates for 2025?
October 10 – Application Deadline
October 10 – November 3 – First Round Interviews
November 20 – Top 6 Finalists Announced
November 20 – December 1 – Pitch Practice & Mentorship Sessions
December 3 – Collegiate Startup Challenge Event
❓ What do winners receive?
Top startups will compete for:
Equity investments (subject to agreement between investors and companies)
Cash prizes
In-kind services from expert partners (legal, marketing, accounting, and more)
❓ Is there a cost to apply?
No — there is no application fee. Participation is free for all eligible teams.
❓ Do I need to be based in Portland to participate?
No. The challenge is open statewide to Oregon and Southwest Washington university-affiliated entrepreneurs. The final event will take place virtually, so applicants and finalists may come from across Oregon and SW Washington.
❓ What if my company already has revenue?
That’s great! As long as your company has raised less than $1 million and not yet closed a Series A round, you are welcome to apply.
❓ What if my team has only one founder?
Unfortunately, single-founder startups are not eligible. At least two members of your team must participate, and at least two must be affiliated with a local college or university.
❓ What are the prizes for winners?
Winners will receive a combination of investment capital and professional services to help accelerate their venture. Investments will likely range from $15K–$50K, and prize packages may include services like legal or tax consulting, or even cybersecurity solutions.
❓ How do I apply?
Applications are open here. Submit your company details, pitch deck, and responses to screening questions by October 10.
