The USA calls on International Students to apply for the $1.6 million Rice Business Plan Graduate-level Student Startup Competition (RBPC) at Rice University in 2025

Rice University is calling for applications to its prestigious Rice Business Plan Graduate-level Student Startup Competition (RBPC) 2025, offering up to $1.6 million in cash and prizes.

When is the Application Deadline:

The application deadline is January 27, 2025, at 11:59 PM CST.

Tell Me About The Award:

The Rice Business Plan Competition (RBPC) 2025 is a prestigious graduate-level startup competition hosted by the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and Rice Business. It offers up to $1.6 million in cash, prizes, and investments to innovative student-led startups.

Which Fields are Eligible?

Startups in the following sectors can apply:

• Energy, Cleantech, and Sustainability
• Hard Tech
• Life Sciences and Healthcare Solutions
• Digital Enterprise
• Consumer Products and Services

Type:

Graduate-level startup competition.

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Who Can Apply for the Rice Business Plan Competition?

Eligibility criteria:

• Startups must be student-driven, student-created, and/or student-managed.
• At least two members must be current students, with one being a graduate degree-seeking student.
• Open to startups from any college or university globally.
• Must have raised less than $250,000 in equity capital before July 1, 2024.
• Must have generated less than $100,000 in revenue during any 12-month period before July 1, 2024.

How Are Applicants Selected?

• Applications are reviewed based on innovation, viability, and investment potential.
• 42 teams will be invited to compete.

Which Countries Are Eligible?

This competition is open to startups from all countries worldwide.

Where Will the Award be Taken?

The competition will take place at Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA.

How Many Awards?

Multiple awards, including cash prizes, equity investments, and in-kind prizes, will be distributed to winners and participants.

What is the Benefit of the Award?

• Cash and Investment Prizes: Up to $1.6 million in total prizes, including $150,000 for 1st place.
• In-kind Support: Legal services, mentoring, accelerator invitations, and AWS credits.
• Networking with investors, industry leaders, and successful entrepreneurs.

How Long Will the Award Last?

The competition spans several days, culminating in presentations and final award ceremonies.

How to Apply for the Rice Business Plan Competition:

Submit your application by January 27, 2025, to take part in this transformative entrepreneurial experience. Click here to apply.

Don’t miss your chance to compete for unparalleled resources, funding, and recognition in the startup ecosystem!