TiEQuest, the annual business venture competition hosted by TiE Toronto that features an “Expression of Interest” for investments of up to $1,000,000 to top teams and various cash prizes and in-kind services from sponsors exceeding $150,000 in value for contest winners, has agreed to use Cdling Ratings in its review process whenever possible.
“Last year over 225 entrepreneurs from 51 different cities across North America participated in TiEQuest”, says Karl Miranda, Associate Director responsible for TiE Toronto operations. “Cdling ratings will help our reviewers as we continue our quest to discover and support the best startups in 2013.”
We can not say enough about this break through. TiE is one of the most important and influential startup networks in the world. Most people outside of Silicon Valley do not realize the historic role that pioneering engineers from India played in the creating the most successful tech companies in the world. While there have been other instances, this is the first time that we have been able to talk about a clear case where real money is on the line and Cdling ratings will have an impact on the decisions being made.
Last date to register for TiEQuest2013 is Jan 31, 2013 (11:55PM, EST) at www.tiequest.org
TiEQuest was started in 2005 with the purpose of helping startups and new businesses. TiEQuest helps bridge the gap between up-and-coming business people and the investment industry. The competition helps generate new ventures and give entrepreneurs the encouragement and the support to help them succeed and turn their dreams into reality.
TiEQuest provides its contestants an opportunity to present to well-known angel investors, venture capitalists and fund managers. Many of theses professionals were on the panel of judges/mentors so they get to know the competing ventures first hand. Sponsoring firms offered an “Expression of Interest” for investments of up to $1,000,000 to top teams. In addition, the winners received various cash prizes and In-Kind services from sponsors exceeding $150,000 in value.
The contestants of TiEQuest include existing and emerging entrepreneurs, patent holders and/or applicants, university students and alumni. Over 225 entrepreneurs took part in TiEQuest 2012. Contestants came from business schools, life sciences, engineering and technology departments of various universities in Ontario, Entrepreneur Assistance programs of the Ontario Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Board of Trade, Business Development Bank of Canada and Export Development Corporation. In addition, a number of contestants were referrals from banks, accounting firms, law firms, universities and other entrepreneurial associations and organizations connected with building entrepreneurship. The contestants came from 51 different cities from all over North America.
In continuation of this tradition TiEQuest will be looking for pragmatic ventures which have the potential to grow into profitable businesses.
