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 25th Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards application is closed. Stay tuned for an announcement about this year’s cohort selection in August 2025.
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.
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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