Madison Reporter

The Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for the 12th Annual Pressure Chamber Competition. This event, recognized as a leading live pitch contest in the region, will be held on August 19 during Forward Fest, Wisconsin's largest festival focused on technology and entrepreneurship.

The competition is presented by Michael Best with support from several regional investment firms and organizations, including the State of Wisconsin Investment Board, Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, UW–Madison Office of Business Engagement, and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation.

Applicants will undergo a screening process that may involve presentations to prominent investors within Wisconsin. Selected companies will then have the opportunity to present their ideas to a panel of national investors and an audience at Forward Fest. The winning company will be awarded the "golden suitcase," which secures them a spot in exclusive startup meetings with top Silicon Valley investment firms this fall.

Kevin Little, Vice President of the Chamber, stated: “Pressure Chamber is an impactful platform where visibility turns into validation. For new and emerging companies seeking investor and customer traction, this is a proven way to accelerate growth and take your business to the next level.”

Previous winners of the Pressure Chamber have noted its role in helping secure successful funding rounds. The initiative has been acknowledged by both the International Economic Development Council and Steve Case’s Rise of the Rest Summit as a model for entrepreneurship and economic development. To date, participating companies have collectively raised nearly $1 billion in funding.

Pressure Chamber welcomes companies from any industry that meet specific requirements. The application process is designed to be straightforward and accessible.

For further details about Forward Fest or how to apply for Pressure Chamber, interested parties are encouraged to reach out directly.