Technology Association of Georgia, Metro Atlanta Chamber, and Venture Atlanta announced today that they are accepting applications for their 11th annual business launch competition. The purpose of BizLaunch is to support the creation and growth of new companies and to strengthen and expand Georgia’s strategic high tech clusters by showcasing Georgia’s startup community and to help launch a local start up technology-based company. The BizLaunch prize package includes $50k cash, $400k in services, and the coveted first spot at Venture Atlanta. Past winners and participating companies include Pindrop Security, Monsieur, Techturized, Salesloft, and Rigor.

Last year over 100 start-ups submitted applications for the competition. Twenty-one companies were chosen to compete at the semi-final level, and the overall competition was won by Gimme Vending. Gimme received the grand prize of $50,000 cash, a package of services, and went on to present at Venture Atlanta.

“The Business Launch continues to be a great launch pad for startups and we are thrilled to support it,” said Allyson Eman, Executive Director of Venture Atlanta. “Business Launch clearly supports our mission of connecting entrepreneurs with sources of capital at all stages to propel them and help them grow.”

Applications from tech startups are now being accepted online at http://bit.ly/2016bizlaunch for the 11th annual competition. Eligible companies include software and hardware companies that are developing products, online services, or back-end technologies which extend the reach, flexibility, and ease of the internet.

“BizLaunch showcases the entrepreneurial talent that is driving our innovation economy,” said Jennifer Sherer, Vice President of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at the Metro Atlanta Chamber. “This is the perfect opportunity for early stage tech companies to pitch to top investors and get valuable feedback and exposure.”

Preliminary applications are due on March 18, 2015. All applicants will be invited to the Investor and Judge Meet and Greet Event on March 22nd.