Innovation Open Mic:

A Mid-South Innovation Pitch Series

Fueling discovery.

Connecting ecosystems.

Building the future.

Virtual and Open

Currently held virtually via Zoom, Innovation Open Mic is open to all students, faculty, and staff from schools and universities throughout the mid-south region of the United States.

Zoom Background: Feel free to use the zoom background below during your pitches!

Upcoming Date: September 24 | 12:00 - 1:30 PM CT

Applications will open soon!

Apply to Pitch
Register to Attend

  • Pitching teams gain a unique combination of funding, visibility, and connections designed to accelerate their entrepreneurial journey.

    Eligibility:
     Presenting teams must have completed a Mid-South Regional I-Corps or partner program in 2025 in order to apply.

    Key Benefits:

    • Non-Dilutive Grant Funding (up to $3,000) to test, validate, and grow without giving up equity.

    • Access to Decision-Makers including funders, buyers, and clinical advisors.

    • Warm Introductions to mentors, stakeholders, and alumni founders.

    • Tailored Feedback from diverse domain experts.

    • Pitch Readiness & Practice for national-level opportunities (NSF I-Corps, VentureWell, SBIR).

    • Regional Visibility through newsletters, HUB partners, and events across the Southeast.

  • Our pitch events are more than presentations—they’re an opportunity to engage, connect, and influence.

    Key Benefits:

    • Front-Row Access to emerging startups and technologies.

    • Direct Engagement with founders addressing urgent industry and community challenges.

    • Opportunity to Shape Ventures Early through actionable feedback.

    • Expanded Network of mentors, funders, advisors, and partners across the Mid-South.

    • Recognition as a supporter of innovation through HUB communications and social media

    • Pipeline Access to teams preparing for national programs and investment.

  • Sponsorship is an investment in innovation leadership, visibility, and community impact.

    Key Benefits:

    • Brand Alignment: Theme awards around your industry or technology focus.

    • Visibility: Logo placement, recognition on website, and social media spotlights.

    • Influence: Option to serve as a judge or join the selection committee.

    • Curated Access: Meet and mentor ventures aligned with your industry priorities.

    • Thought Leadership: Position your company as a champion of innovation in the Southeast.

    • Community Impact: Directly fund non-dilutive awards that fuel founder progress.

    • Sponsorship Packages Begin at $5,000

    Levels scale from Community Sponsor to Regional Champion, with exclusive branding and engagement opportunities.

  • To learn more about the Innovation Open Mic, please contact Shannon Ware at shannon.ware@vanderbilt.edu.

Innovation Open Mic Bakground