Nail the Hook
Describe your business in two sentences. Use simple, powerful words that create a vivid image. You have limited time to capture attention, make it count.
Competition details
C-ElevateHer provides prize money to tech-inspired, women-led businesses. But it's not just about the money, it's about building durable connections. Founders connect with seasoned tech founders and investors who have built, scaled, and sold companies before. This competition champions the next generation of women redefining what's possible in technology.
- $20,000 CAD in prizes
- Applications open Jan 6, 2027
- Pitch Day Aug 15, 2027
- Edmonton, AB
C-ElevateHer
Key dates
- Applications open
- Wednesday, January 6, 2027
- Application deadline
- Sunday, March 7, 2027
- Semi-finalists announced
- Thursday, April 15, 2027
- Finalists announced
- Tuesday, June 1, 2027
- Pitch Day
- Sunday, August 15, 2027
Eligibility
Women founders with controlling equity in a tech-enabled startup.
- Founder must identify as a woman with more than 10% controlling equity
- Team of minimum 2 members
- Maximum 2 teams per participant (lead member limited to 1 team)
- Must be 18 years or older and of legal age in their jurisdiction
- Startup Stage track: less than $1,000,000 raised in total dilutive funding
- Employees and immediate family of C-Tribe Society are not eligible
Judging criteria
$20,000 CAD
Total prize pool
- 1st Place$10,000 CAD
- 2nd Place$5,000 CAD
- 3rd Place$3,000 CAD
- Runner-Up (x4)$500 CAD each
Finalist perks
- Pitch coaching
- Graphic design support for pitch decks
Pitching tips
Make your five minutes count
Preparing to pitch at C-ElevateHer? Here’s what judges are looking for.
Show Your Team
Your idea alone isn't enough. Show that you have the skills, grit, and passion to execute. Showcase your portfolio and how your team works together.
Know Your Market
Who is your customer? How big is the market? Show evidence that people will pay for what you're building. Include early traction if you have it.
Customer Acquisition
How will you reach your first 1,000 customers? What channels will you use? Show that you've thought through the path from launch to scale.
Revenue Model
How does the business make money? Be specific about pricing, margins, and unit economics. Judges want to see a path to profitability.
The Ask
What do you need from C-Tribe? Funding? Feedback? Connections? Make your ask clear, concise, and specific. Pitching is the art of persuasion.
Prepare for Q&A
Your pitch is the beginning, not the end. Be ready to answer tough questions, address concerns, and go deeper. Have backup slides ready.
Investors & judges
Past judges
Investors, founders and operators who have judged C-Tribe pitch competitions.
Want to dive deeper?
Ready to pitch?
Applications open January 6, 2027 and close March 7, 2027. Questions? Email hello@ctribefestival.com.