ENTRY FAQS

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When will the competition open?
The 25/26 competition will open for entries on 28 April 2025.

What types of tech startups can enter?

The competition is on the lookout for Tech that can transform how businesses operate - from customer experience, admin/management systems, financial processes, logistics, marketing or anything else. 

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Is this a global competition?
Yes this is open to startups based anywhere in the world however the entry and pitch process will all be in English.    

Does my startup need to be incorporated before submitting an entry?

No you don't need to be incorporated although you will be competing against startups that are. 

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If my business is pre-revenue can I still apply?

Yes you can still enter.

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Are you limiting entries to first-time entrepreneurs?

No, you can enter regardless of your experience.
 

How can I enter the competition?
All you need is a pitchdeck and a business plan to enter.

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Is this a global competition?
Yes this is open to startups based anywhere in the world however the entry and pitch process will all be in English.    

Does my startup need to be incorporated before submitting an entry?

No you don't need to be incorporated although you will be competing against startups that are. 

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If my business is pre-revenue can I still apply?

Yes you can still enter.

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Are you limiting entries to first-time entrepreneurs?

No, you can enter regardless of your experience.

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When can I submit my application?

Applications can be submitted at any time up until the closing date which is the 30 September 2024 for the 24/25 competition.

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Can I edit my entry once I have submitted it?

Yes the platform should enable you to edit your entry up until the closing date.

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How do you treat Intellectual property?

Any intellectual property included in submissions belongs to the respective applicants.

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Can I request aNon-disclosure Agreement (NDA)?

Can I request a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before submitting my entry?
Yes - please email competition@leolion.co

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PITCHDAY FAQS
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When is the pitchday?

The pitchday will be at the Shard in London on Tuesday 3 February 2026, finalists will also be

required on Monday 2 February for video interviews and pre-pitchday briefing.

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Where is the pitchday?

The pitchday event and evening reception will take place on Level 17 of The Shard building which is in London, UK.

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Can you offer financial support to attend the pitchday? 

Yes, any shortlisted startups that require financial assistance to attend the pitchday, which is in London, UK, can apply for our travel fund and will be assessed on an individual basis.  

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If shortlisted how many presenters can pitch per startup?

Up to two presenters are invited to pitch for each shortlisted startup.

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Who are the judges for the 25/26 Pitchday?

Judge details are yet to be announced. 

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INVESTMENT FAQS

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What investment is available?

There is up to $1m (USD) investment on offer. Please note -this may be split between startups depending on investment required.

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What form will the funding take?
The investment will be offered as equity funding to tech startups. However, it may be possible to offer other types of investment depending on the circumstances.

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Our default investment position is to take Ordinary Shares in a business, but the size, level, and type of investment we make will depend on our assessment of the underlying risk and size of the opportunity in the business.

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The level of investment will depend upon factors such as how established the startup is, as well the potential size of opportunity - for example the $1m could perhaps be invested in multiple startups. 

 

How much equity will be taken?

The amount of equity taken will depend upon a combination of the size of the investment offered and a mutually agreed valuation of the business.

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