Vogt Awards
The Community Foundation of Louisville’s Vogt Invention & Innovation Awards is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Since 1999, the Vogt Awards has offered entrepreneurs in the Louisville region a unique and exciting opportunity to take their businesses to the next level. Each year, up to six early-stage businesses receive $25,000 in non-dilutive grant funding, participation in a 10-week startup accelerator program, coaching, mentorship, strategic introductions, and recognition, all designed to boost the growth of their business. Unlike other business accelerator programs, the Vogt Awards allows founders to retain full ownership of their businesses.
The application is open now through June 9, 2025. New this year, Vogt Awards recipients 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.
Apply today.
Vogt Awards Information Session
Join the Vogt Awards Information Session hosted by Program Director Lisa Bajorinas on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from Noon to 1 p.m. This session will provide early-stage businesses with tips on how to write an outstanding application and information about the program's eligibility criteria.
2024 Vogt Awards Cohort
Credit: Abdul Sharif Photography
Back row (left to right): Sashil Chapagain, PhD, Peter Armstrong, PhD, Jack Manzella, and Blake Martin, PhD with Sofab Inks; Morgan Gao with EchoJobs; Kela Ivonye and Gautam Nain with RiverGuide. Front row (left to right): Amanda Miah with Besti Co.; Ace McGill with Value Buddy; and Anora Morton, JD, with Nori
These six early stage businesses were recipients of the 24th Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards. Each founder received $25,000 in non-dilutive grant funding, participation in a 10-week accelerator program, startup coaching, mentorship, strategic introductions, and recognition.
Talking Success with Entrepreneur and 2025 Vogt Awards Selection Committee Chair Maggie Harlow
Maggie Harlow, CEO of Signarama Downtown and Vogt Awards Selection Committee Chair, started her career as the general manager for Tom Payette Jaguar, her father’s business, and then opened Signarama Downtown with her husband, Brian, in 2003. As a long-time business owner, she has had to redefine her goals and her definition of success, something she says is all part of the journey.
Read Maggie's reflection about success and what it means for early-stage businesses applying to this year's Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards.
The Tremendous Legacy behind the Vogt Awards
The Vogt Invention & Innovation Fund and Awards is celebrating its 25th Anniversary. Established in 1999 through an endowment generously created by Henry V. Heuser Sr., this long-standing and prestigious program aims to strengthen Louisville’s economic health by supporting innovative businesses and inspiring entrepreneurship.
It’s an incredible story of generosity supporting a long-term vision that benefits economic development in our community.
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