25th Annual Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards Application Open 

Posted April 25, 2025 under:

Applications for one of Kentucky’s longest-running early-stage accelerator programs opened Friday, April 25. The Community Foundation of Louisville’s 25th annual Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards provides up to $25,000 in non-dilutive funding to up to six early-stage businesses developing their innovative products and ideas into viable and successful enterprises. Award recipients will partake in a 10-week accelerator program with coaching, mentorship, and resources, and may qualify for $25,000 in additional capital from a participating program partner.   

“The Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards were built on the belief that great ideas can create change. For 25 years, we’ve seen that vision come to life – supporting local entrepreneurs who are reshaping industries around the world and strengthening our community. As we celebrate this milestone, we honor a vibrant legacy of innovation and look ahead with excitement for the groundbreaking ideas yet to come,” said Ron Gallo, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Louisville.    

The program is proud to have supported 108 companies with more than $4.1 million in grants in its 25-year history. Nearly 41% of funds have gone to support women or founders of color – highlighting that the Vogt Awards are a model for increasing access to capital and encouraging economic freedom. From obtaining financial loans, to connecting with angel investors, many of these early-stage businesses feel resources are out of reach. The Vogt Awards program offers them an opportunity to be seen and heard by those who can help move their businesses forward. Unlike other business accelerator programs, the Vogt Awards allows founders to retain full ownership of their businesses, should they wish.   

 

Application Process  

Early-stage businesses have until June 9, 2025, to complete this year’s application. Eligibility requirements include:  

  • Must be a for-profit business  
  • Must have headquarters in the following counties:  
  • Indiana – Clark, Floyd, or Harrison counties  
  • Kentucky – Bullitt, Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, or Spencer counties  
  • Must be registered and in good standing with either the Indiana or Kentucky Secretary of State   
  • The business is beyond the concept/idea stage and has an early prototype of the technology.  
  • The business is developing an innovative product/service.  
  • Receives no more than $250,000/year in customer revenue  
  • The business has a lifetime funding maximum of $1,000,000 as of application submittal (excludes founders’ personal investments)  
  • The business is independent, not a subsidiary of another business or corporate spinout.  

Preference will be given to businesses that are solving an identified need, have conducted customer discovery, have a large market, are leveraging technology in the development of their product/service, have a unique competitive advantage, and are developing a scalable business model.   

“The Vogt Awards aren’t just about funding — it is a launchpad,” says Lisa Bajorinas, Vogt Awards Program Director. “With non-dilutive and equity funding, hands-on mentorship, curated investor access and expert resources, this program surrounds the selected founders with a team that’s truly invested in their growth every step of the way.  Now in its 25th year, the Vogt Awards remain committed to supporting scalable, potentially venture-backable companies. Our mission is to fuel innovation across a wide range of industries and perspectives, while empowering entrepreneurs and driving meaningful progress within Louisville’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.”  

Vogt Award recipients are announced in early August and begin the accelerator program in late August. The program culminates on November 13 with Demo Day, where each business pitches their idea, product or service before area entrepreneurs, potential investors, and the Louisville startup community.   

The Community Foundation of Louisville will provide a virtual Vogt Awards Information Session hosted by Program Director Lisa Bajorinas and Program Officer Justin Hogan on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. This session will provide interested applicants with tips on writing an outstanding application and information about the program’s eligibility criteria. For information about the Vogt Awards, application criteria, virtual info session, and more, visit www.vogtawards.com.   

 

About the Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards  

The Community Foundation of Louisville’s Vogt Awards is one of the longest-standing business accelerators of its kind in the Kentuckiana region. Funded by the Vogt Invention & Innovation Fund at the Community Foundation of Louisville, the program is made possible by an endowment left by Henry Vogt Heuser, Sr. in 1999. The awards program is unique because it allows founders to retain full ownership of their business while leveraging funding and education, receiving mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, and obtaining access to an extensive network of support. The fund’s mission is to help entrepreneurs, inventors, and visionaries commercialize their ideas, products, and projects and develop them into viable and successful businesses. The Vogt Awards program supports economic growth, diversification, stability, and employment for the Greater Louisville region.