The GeoNext Startup Showcase has launched with the promise of a pitching contest and investor networking for location-based tech start-ups.

 

Based in Sydney, GeoNext was established specifically for the “geo community”, aimed at all practitioners of location-based technology.

 

At its inaugural conference, to be held on February 29, GeoNext will host a start-up showcase, giving start-ups the opportunity to make themselves known to potential users and high-profile investors by way of a pitching contest.

 

“Geo technology is a key component in many of the big stories in the tech industry,” an event spokesperson says.

 

“From checking in on Foursquare to finding deals on Groupon and posting pics on Instagram, it’s all about location.”

 

Anyone involved in geo technology is being encouraged to submit their pitch online for the chance to meeting some “heavy-hitting” investors at the conference.

 

Submissions for the GeoNext Startup Showcase pitching contest must be received via the GeoNext website by February 14. A judging panel will nominate five finalists by February 21.

 

“Be brief but concise and make sure you hit all the questions asked. ‘Overview’ is a brief synopsis. I.e. your mission statement or elevator pitch,” the spokesperson says.

 

“The other items give you a chance to explain the value proposition, market potential, and what you are bringing to the table. Make sure to talk about the management team and experience under ‘The Company’.”

 

On the day of the conference, the finalists will have five minutes to pitch to a judging panel and audience, which will consist of experts from the fields of GIS, mapping, mobility, software development and business.

 

Audience members will vote for their favourite start-up. After voting is completed, the judging panel will announce the winner and also the audience’s favourite, and prizes will be presented.

 

While the prize pool is yet to be announce, it will include a mix of mentoring, online support and funding.

 

“We can’t wait to see geo users from mobile, location-based gaming, augmented reality and mobile payments mixing it up with open source and vendor GIS users, geo science practitioners, geographers and cartographers,” the organisation says.