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Draper Competition

Two students at their booth at the Draper Competition

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

2020 Draper Competition Canceled

The Smith College COVID-19 Incident Response Team (CIRT) met with President McCartney over the weekend to review local, national and international developments. These developments signal the increasing need for Smith to prepare for community spread of the COVID-19 disease.

Smith has now followed other institutions in restricting large on-campus gatherings where more than 50 people are expected. Sadly, this means that the 2020 Draper Competition will be canceled.

We understand that this is disappointing news in these unsettling times. Rest assured that we will be in touch with all 2020 Semi-Finalist team leaders about participating in the 2021 Competition, which we will now begin putting our energies into planning.

We wish all students the best with your ventures. We thank all exhibitors, sponsors and judges for your support. We look forward to seeing many of you next year.

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Explore the Draper Competition

Draper 2019 Semi-Finalist Olivia Goff

About the Competition

A groundbreaking partnership aims to level the playing field for aspiring undergraduate female founders.
Top prize-winning team posing with Tim Draper

Prizes

This year’s competition provides more than $100,000 in cash and Draper University scholarships.
Two students on computers

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.

321 team leaders, 600+ team members, 57 ventures started, $550,000 cash and in-kind prizes

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

Two women presenting at the 2019 Draper Competition

2019 Draper Competition Highlights
An overview of the the 2019 Draper Competition held at Smith College. (1:41)
Woman pitching her concept at the 2019 Draper Competition

2019 Draper Competition
Three of the ten finalists pitch their ideas in the 7th Annual Draper Competition at Smith College. (17:51)
Participants meet with judges on the show floor

2018 Draper Competition
The 2018 competition allowed students to explore entrepreneurial business opportunities. (1:54)

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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