In an effort to identify and recognize promising start-ups in the Semantic Technology and Semantic Web spaces, Semanticweb.com is partnering with STIA and Vator for the 2^nd Annual 2011 SemTech Start-Up Competition.  The competition is currently accepting entrants from now until May 15^th, 2011. Winners will receive an overall prize package totaling over $12,000.

Seed Stage Companies, FP7 Projects, NSF Funded Projects and University Projects with a demonstrable “beta” product in the SemTech and or SemWeb space are encouraged to apply. Companies and projects can be located anywhere but must have the financial means to attend SemTech 2011.

Two Rounds

The contest consists of two rounds.

Round one is based on a popular vote where the top 10 contestants are chosen to move forward. There is no fee to participate in Round One.

The cost for those moving on to Round Two is $4,000.

During Round Two, an interdisciplinary panel of judges will rate the finalists on their competitive and technological advantages, management team, commercial viability, utilization of semantic technology and innovation.

Prize Package

The winner will be announced on June 8, 2011 at SemTech and will receive a prize package worth $12,000 consisting of:

• a 2012 Silver Sponsorship package (priced at $7,000)
• a 30-minute speaking slot at the official 2012 SemTech West Program (valued at $3,500)
• one full conference pass for SemTech West 2012 (valued at $1,795).

“This promises to be a fantastic competition. Great innovations and valuable applications of semantic technologies are now being developed all around the world at an incredible pace. This event is a wonderful opportunity for these companies to get exposure and possible funding relationships” said Don Butler, Managing Director, Thomvest.

To register for the competition please visit http://vator.tv/competition/semtech-2011/.

Our Partners

Semantic Technology Institute Americas Inc. STIA’s strategic mission is to build a diversified Semantic Technology/Web company focused on driving commercial adoption of cutting edge semantic technology advances. STIA exclusively licenses, represents, develops, exploits and commercializes breakthrough Semantic Technologies and Semantic Web discoveries in partnership with seed stage start-ups, the European Union FP7 projects, world-class universities and leading scientists.

Vator (short for innovator) is one of the largest business networks dedicated to high-tech entrepreneurs.  Founded and run by veteran and award-winning journalist Bambi Francisco, Vator consists of Vator.tv,  a leading platform for entrepreneurs and innovators to connect and learn from one another. Vator.tv has more than 60,000 members and high-tech companies, using the service to effectively communicate with their partners, investors, media and customers. VatorNews is Vator’s news site focused on innovation and entrepreneurship with 350-plus contributors.

SemTechBiz is Less Than 3 Weeks Away

The Semantic Tech & Business Conference (SemTechBiz) is coming to San Francisco on June 3-7! Join us for case studies, innovative panels, tutorials, and keynotes that will provide you with practical advice, hands-on guidance, and breakthrough approaches to solving business problems with semantic technology. Passes go up $200 at the door. Sign up now and save !