Note to Sponsors

We are grateful to be able to organize an event like this with the financial backing of our regional sponsors.  We appreciate the tangible support for our entrepreneurs in Southwestern Illinois who earn a spot in the finalists.

We are always looking for additional sponsors who would like to maintain and contribute to our challenge. Our goal is to continue our efforts and foster a real-world environment in which bright, creative business minds can flourish through an opportunity like the Metro East Startup Challenge.  

We would greatly appreciate your commitment to helping us reach the $20,000 in prize money allocated to the top 3 winners. Your generous commitment will go a long way toward making this event a true success and will serve as excellent branding for your company in association with this prominent regional event.

Sponsorship Levels

Seed Investor Level ($1000)  

• Recognition on SBDC Website and Applicant Submission Microsite
• Mention in Press Release

 Entrepreneurship Investor Level ($1,500)

• Recognition on SBDC Website and Applicant Submission Microsite
• Recognition on Event Flyer
• Mention in Press Release

  Angel Investor Level ($2,500)  

• Recognition on Event Flyer, SBDC Website and Applicant Submission Microsite
• Mention in Press Release
• Recognition on Large Souvenir Checks
• 2 Invitations to Mentor-Semifinalists Networking Event (2)

  Venture Capitalist Level ($5,000)  

• Recognition on Flyer, SBDC Website and Applicant Submission Microsite
• Mention in Press Release
• Recognition on Large Souvenir Checks
• Invitation to Mentor-Semifinalists Networking Event ( up to 4 people)
• 2 Invitations (max) to Winners Announcement Event at Leadership Council SW Illinois (with optional speaking privilege)

 Fourth Place Prize ($2,000) -already solidified 

• Sole Recognition of Prize Awarded
• Sole Logo on Souvenir Check (Along with SIUE and SBDC Logos only)

 Rural Business of the Year ($1,500) 

• Sole Recognition of Prize Awarded
• Sole Logo on Souvenir Check (Along with SIUE and SBDC Logos only) 

Top four (4) prize winners are not eligible for this additional award

population of less than 50,000 and the contiguous area around the urban area

 Woman, Minority, or Veteran Business of the Year ($1,500)

• Sole Recognition of Prize Awarded
• Sole Logo on Souvenir Check (Along with SIUE and SBDC Logos only)

 to be eligible the woman, minority or veteran must possess at least 51% ownership in the company

Top four (4) prize winners are not eligible for these additional award

Semifinalist Networking Event Sponsorship

Mentor-Semifinalist Networking Event Host ($4,000-$5,000)

• Provides for Room Rental and Food for approximately 75 people
• Includes 2 additional Invitations to the Networking Event
• Speaking privilege at the Networking Event

If you are interested in learning more about how you can sponsor this or any other event, and/or want additional information, please reach out to SBDC Director, Jo Ann May at 618-650-2929.