Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the deadline for submitting business plans?

A: All plans must be submitted by July 28, 2010. Presenting companies will be given slots based on a first come basis. In order to be assured of your position, please submit your plan as early as possible. There is a non-refundable fee of $200 for business plan submissions.

Q: Do I have a chance if I am not a technology company?

A: Absolutely. We are looking for Socially Responsible Businesses within the eleven industry categories shown on the Home page of this website. Each submittal is considered on the basis of its merits. Investors recognize opportunities in all forms of businesses. Many of our attending investors have specialties that are not technology related. In prior years, we have had many different industries receive funding.

Q: How long should a business plan be?

A: Length is not a determining factor. However, in order for your plan to be considered, you must include a one-page Company Summary, an Executive Summary of no more than two pages, Times New Roman 12 font, with 1/2" margins for top, bottom, left and right & in Word format , along with your business plan. Your business plan should articulate the business concept, market opportunity, competitive landscape and advantages, management team, funding needs and financial projections succinctly, yet effectively.

Q: Does my plan have to be perfect?

A: A business plan is never perfect because the world is constantly changing around it. Put yourself in the investor's shoes and think of the things they would like to hear and the issues they would want you to address. Nobody should know your business better than you, so you should be able to think this through.

Q: What if my plan gets accepted?

A: If your company is selected to present, you will have to pay an additional fee of $1000. To prepare you to work with investors of all kinds, you will be expected to attend a special one-day Entrepreneur Boot Camp which is included in this fee.  You will then be required to attend a mentoring session conducted by industry experts and investors designed to help you refine and rehearse your presentation in PowerPoint. These value added services are worth thousands of dollars in professional advice from some of the best investment bankers, lawyers and business people. The process will help you in your fund raising efforts for many years to come.

If you get selected as an exhibiting company you will have to pay an additional $500 which will entitle you to attend the special one-day Entrepreneur Boot Camp, to exhibit in the marketplace, showcase your product or plan, and meet investors.

 Q: How long before I know if I am accepted or rejected?

A: The selection process will begin on July 28, 2010 and notifications will begin July 30, 2010.

Q: Can I submit my plan by e-mail?

A: Yes, all documents, Business Summary, Executive Summary and Business Plan must be submitted in electronic form. See the "Entrepreneur" tab for details.

Q: Does it matter if I am a start-up or a later-stage company?

A: We are accepting business plans from both emerging growth, mid and later stage companies. Companies planning to submit should plan to attain at least $20 million in revenue before the fifth year.

Q: How much financing should I be looking for?

A: To be eligible for selection. companies must be looking to secure investment of between $500,000 and $10 million.

Q: How many investors will attend?

A: Over the past three years, we have averaged about 100 investors (venture capitalists, angel investors and corporate strategic partners). We are anticipating even greater attendance this year due to the national scope, speakers, expanded venues and new interest in Socially Responsible Entrepreneurs.

Q: How much money was raised by Forum companies last year?

A: The largest investment in a company was for $32 million. Exhibiting Companies (marketplace only) and Presenting Companies both raised money as a result of the CCVF last year. In total, we have helped companies raise in excess of $110 million.

Q: Who can I contact for more information?

A: You may contact us via the contact page on this Web site or as follows: