Entrepreneurs are always welcome to attend our pitch events. Startups that apply to us do not have to be affiliated with the University of Chicago. We accept applications during our open application cycles throughout the year in Winter, Spring, and Fall.

Applications for our Winter 2025 Pitch Event are now open via GUST through February 5th. If you are a startup and this is the first time you are submitting an application, please use the Apply for Funding link on The Chicago Booth Angels Network of Chicago & New York GUST profile here . 

If you are a startup on our “Observe” list (you have already entered our process and have received a note that you are on our Observe list),  and would like to submit an update related to any material change in your business, please do so via your original Startup GUST application. Please note that we’ll consider only one relevant “material” update to your business after the initial application. 

We use the following criteria to assess applicants:

• A US-based company 

• Executive team with relevant background/successful track record

• Unique solution, clear target customer, large market

• Existing product, paying customers, recurring revenue

• Post-money valuation up to $15 million (dependent on the above)