Apply to become an equalizer

Equalize Startups is a pitch competition and symposium to empower academic women entrepreneurs.

Applications for our 2027 cohort are open from September 14 – November 13, 2026. Here are our instructions on best practices for applications:

✅ Do:
– Clearly explain your innovation and its real-world impact
– Describe the stage of research (in vitro, in vivo, prototype testing, etc.)
– Write like you’re pitching to someone outside your field

🚫 Don’t:
– Simply upload research papers or publications without context
– Focus only on the science—this is about the potential commercialization of the innovation.

Tips for a Strong Application:
1) Lead with your big idea: summarize your innovation in 1–3 clear sentences. It’s a bonus if you can start with a hook!

2) Tell a larger story:
– What does your innovation do and what problem does it address?
– What proof or traction do you have?
– Who is the potential customer and/or who is the end user?
– What are your next steps (e.g., planned experiments/development, potential connections needed, desired grants/funding)?
– How are you hoping Equalize can be useful?

3) Keep it short & simple: aim for one to two pages.

Still have questions? Join us for an info panel on October 5 at 1:00pm ET or contact us direclty. We are delighted you are applying!

Equalize Startups is a 501(c)(3) organization.