Vogt Awards
The Community Foundation of Louisville’s Vogt Invention & Innovation Awards offers entrepreneurs in the Louisville region a unique and exciting opportunity to take their businesses to the next level. Each year, up to six early-stage businesses receive $25,000 in non-dilutive grant funding, participation in a 10-week startup accelerator program, coaching, mentorship, strategic introductions, and recognition, all designed to boost the growth of their business. Unlike other business accelerator programs, the Vogt Awards allows founders to retain full ownership of their businesses.
24th Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards Application
Apply to the 24th Vogt Invention & Innovation Awards today.
The application is open now through May 28, 2024. “The Vogt Awards continues to carry out the vision of the Heuser family by providing a platform for growth and mentorship for innovative business founders,” says Ron Gallo, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Louisville. “Supporting early-stage businesses through the Vogt Awards opens opportunity for invention and economic development in our community.”
Join the Vogt Awards Information Session hosted by Program Director Lisa Bajorinas on Thursday, May 9, 2024, from noon to 1:00 p.m. This session will provide early-stage businesses with tips on how to write an outstanding application and information about the program’s eligibility criteria.
We are searching for coachable entrepreneurs who are ready to take their businesses to the next level. If you are an entrepreneur or founder with a promising early-stage business, then we encourage you to attend this session. You can find additional information at www.vogtawards.com.
The 2023 Vogt Awards Cohort
Pictured front row left to right: Terri Lykins, My Food My Choice; Chris Matthews, Gamerabble; Cecile Matthews, Gamerabble
Pictured back row left to right: Jeff Cummins, Immersive Hearing Technologies; Matthew Neal PhD, Immersive Hearing Technologies; Stevens Bonhomme, Feedcoyote; Dan Ross-Li, Affinna; Eddie Fieldhouse, The Kentucky Hug; David Galownia, The Kentucky Hug
These six, early-stage businesses were selected as recipients of the 23rd Vogt Invention & Innovation Awards. They received $25,000 in non-dilutive grant funding, participation in a 10-week accelerator program, startup coaching, mentorship, strategic introductions, and recognition.
The Tremendous Legacy behind the Vogt Awards
The Vogt Invention & Innovation Fund and Awards were established in 1999 through an endowment generously created by Henry V. Heuser Sr. This long-standing and prestigious program aims to strengthen Louisville’s economic health by supporting innovative businesses and inspiring entrepreneurship.
It’s an incredible story of generosity supporting a long-term vision that benefits economic development in our community.
We're here to answer your questions!
Senior Vice President, Community Leadership
502.855.6971
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