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Audacity, Agency, Authenticity.

A Culture of Care

Read Smith’s UPDATED plans as of November 23, 2020,
for the spring 2021 semester.

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.


BUILDING BOLDLY: Equity Through Womxn Entrepreneurship

2021 Draper Competition: April 5–9, 2021

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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.

393 Team Leaders; 102 Schools; 750 Team Members; 65 Ventures Started; $900,000 in cash/prizes awarded

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

 

2021 Draper Competition

 

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The Draper Competition is #8 collegiate entrepreneurship competition in the country, according to George Washington University and Times of Entrepreneurship. Smith College stands out as the only liberal arts institution that hosts a competition highlighting women entrepreneurs.

FULL TOP 20 LIST   TIMES OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP ARTICLE

Explore Previous Competitions

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

2019 Draper Competition
Three of the ten finalists pitch their ideas in the 7th Annual Draper Competition at Smith College. (17:51)

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
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Phone: 413-585-3653
Fax: 413-585-3655
Email: draper@smith.edu

Keep Exploring

Business Model Canvas

Learn how the Business Model Canvas (BMC) works from the entrepreneur who developed this useful tool.

The BMC Made Easy

Access downloads, slides and videos that thoroughly explain each panel of the Business Model Canvas.

Conway Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center

The Conway Center is a hub where students receive the tools to think expansively and develop innovative solutions to pressing problems.