$25,000 Impact Opportunity Challenge

We’re very excited to be partnering with The Community Foundation and their corporate partners for their Impact Opportunity Challenge. They’ll be providing up to $25,000 in seed capital to an entrepreneur who wants to get their business idea off the ground or expand their existing business into one of four Utica neighborhoods (Downtown, Bagg’s Square, Brewery District or Bleecker/East District).

Any kind of business or idea is eligible, but we’re looking for innovative ideas that can integrate art or technology into their business in some way. To be eligible you must be starting a new business or expanding an early-stage business (get more details on their website).

Right now you can submit a basic intake form expressing your interest in the challenge. You DO NOT need to have a complete business plan at this point, but you must be able to articulate your idea, it’s viability, and why Utica would benefit from it. It’s that simple to get started.

The Process

After submitting your intake form (by April 16th), accepted participants will have the option of working with us at the thINCubator to develop and refine the documents that will be required for final consideration. We’ll work with you to test your business hypothesis, connect you with experts and mentors, and create a plan that sets you up for success.

Final plans must be submitted to the Foundation by July 22nd and finalists will present to a panel of judges.