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Attention Veterinary Startups: Apply for the VMX 2027 Start Up Launch Pad & Pet Pitch Competition!

Don’t miss the 10th Annual Pet Pitch Competition happening inside the Expo Hall where three startup companies compete and pitch their ideas to the veterinary Shark Tank experts!

Since 2018, the VMX Startup Launch Pad gives new and innovative companies the opportunity to introduce their products, services and solutions to veterinary professionals and decision-makers. VMX is proud to give early-stage veterinary startups a platform to showcase their companies.

WHEN

Monday, January 18, 2027

WHERE

TBA

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About the Startup Launch Pad at VMX
  • The Startup Circle Program was introduced at the VMX 2018
  • A maximum of 20 companies are selected annually
  • The goal is to help veterinary startup companies showcase their products and services and provide a large audience
  • Companies selected are provided a fully furnished booth space at a fraction of a price compared to a commercial booth
  • To date, NAVC has helped introduce and showcase more than 100 startup companies and has awarded over $100K in monetary prizes

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Startup Launch Pad Selections

If selected, the Startup Launch Pad participants will receive the following:

  • Ability to participate in the VMX Startup Circle and as an exhibitor at a discounted rate
  • Furnished exhibit space (excludes electrical and Internet)
  • Small virtual booth inside VMX Virtual Expo
  • Two (2) complimentary badges
  • Inclusion in Exhibitor Directory listing in various media as determined by NAVC
  • Additional promotions as determined by NAVC
  • Eligibility to participate in the Pet Pitch Competition

The Pet Pitch Competition winner will be announced during VMX 2027. One winner will be selected. The winner will receive the following

  • Ability to participate in the VMX Startup Launch Pad and as an exhibitor at a discounted rate
  • Furnished exhibit space (excludes electrical and Internet)
  • Two (2) complimentary badges
  • Inclusion in Exhibitor Directory listing in various media as determined by NAVC
  • Additional promotions as determined by NAVC
  • Eligibility to participate in the Pet Pitch Competition
APPLY NOW

10th Annual VMX Pet Pitch Competition

Don’t miss the 10th Annual Pet Pitch Competition happening inside the Expo Hall where five startup companies compete and pitch their ideas to the veterinary Shark Tank experts.

If selected in the Startup Launch Pad all companies will be eligible to participate in the Pet Pitch Competition.

NAVC will select the top five candidates who will represent the Pet Pitch Competition and these finalists will be announced on or before December 1.

  • All participants get an opportunity to network with leaders in the pet care industry
  • The Pet Project competition focuses on high impact ideas to improve veterinary care
  • Entrepreneurs are invited to pitch their ideas to a panel of experts, who will then award cash prizes to the winning idea
  • Each finalist also receives mentorship, networking and critical feedback to help accelerate their idea into a thriving business
  • All VMX registrants are encouraged to come and hear the Pet Project finalists pitch their projects
Previous winners include:

The winner receives a cash prize (no strings attached) and/or non-monetary prize. The prizes vary each year depending on the sponsors. The prize for VMX 2027 is to be determined. Previous years’ cash prizes ranged from $5,000-$15,000, plus additional brand exposure and recognition.

Since 2018, through the generous contributions from various organizations, such as Whistle, Petcoach, Leap, a division of Mars Petcare, Elanco and Petco, NAVC has awarded more than $100,000 to nearly 10 veterinary startups, with no string attached cash prizes.

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Selection Criteria
  • Long-term impact on the veterinary profession (30%)
  • Long-term stability of the product or service (20%)
  • Ease of implementation and use (20%)
  • Uniqueness of the offering (20%)
  • Quality of the pitch/live presentation (10%)

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Pet Pitch Competition Winner

The Pet Pitch Competition winner during VMX 2027 will be announced on Monday, January 18th, 2027. One winner will be selected. The winner will receive the following:

  • Exclusive complimentary exhibitor booth at the NAVC’s Veterinary Innovation Summit (VIS).
  • Veterinary Industry media and public relations support from VMX/NAVC
  • Opportunity to return as one of the panel judges at future VMX Startup Circle and Pet Pitch Competition
APPLY NOW

QUESTIONS?

Contact your Exhibit Sales Team at [email protected] or +1.352.244.37

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