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Draper Competition

Draper participant taking photos at the event

The Draper Competition for Collegiate Women Entrepreneurs is an on-ramp for undergraduate women seeking access to entrepreneurship opportunties, capital and networks.

 

2019 Competition Day

On Friday, April 5, 2019, more than $100,000 in cash and scholarships will be awarded at the 2019 Draper Competition at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts.

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Explore the Draper Competition

Judges on the judging panel

About the Competition

A groundbreaking partnership aims to level the playing field for aspiring undergraduate female founders.
Prize winner with her novelty check

Prizes

This year’s competition provides more than $100,000 in cash and Draper University scholarships.
Closeup photo of a laughing participant

Application Information

Key dates, eligibility, schedules, application tracks, frequently asked questions and more. 
Wide shot of the competition venue

Sponsors

One-of-a-kind opportunities to recognize and support emerging generations of women entrepreneurs. 

Our Impact

Every year since its inception in 2013, the Draper Competition has attracted ever greater numbers of strong undergraduate women entrepreneurs.

226 team leaders, 500+ team members, 47 ventures started, $350,000 cash and scholarships

Crush the Glass Ceiling

“We imagine that Smith will become the entrepreneurial school for women.”

In 2012, Smith College, Tim Draper and Melissa Parker Draper ’77 forged a groundbreaking partnership to level the playing field for aspiring undergraduate female founders.

Melissa and Tim Draper at the judging table

Explore Previous Competitions

Participants meet with judges on the show floor

2018 Draper Competition
The 2018 competition offered all students opportunities to explore entrepreneurial business opportunities. (1:54)
Judges at the Draper Competition

2017 Draper Competition
A brief snapshot of the 2017 Draper Competition, including the Trade Show Expo and Pitch rounds. (1:35)
Example of a product at the 2016 competition

2016 Draper Competition
Excerpts of the 2016 Draper Competition finalist pitches, including a Q&A with the judging panel. (11:28)

Contact

Draper Competition for Collegiate Women Entrepreneurs

146 Elm Street
Smith College
Northampton, MA 01063
Phone: 413-585-3653
Fax: 413-585-3655
Email: draper@smith.edu

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