Vogt Awards
The Community Foundation of Louisville’s Vogt Invention & Innovation Awards is celebrating its 26th year. 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.
2026 Applications Open
Applications for one of Kentucky’s longest-running early-stage accelerator programs are open now through Friday, June 5, 2026. Award recipients will take part in a 10-week accelerator program with coaching, connections, and resources. Additionally, recipients may qualify for a $25,000 investment from Keyhorse Capital, an initiative of Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet of Economic Development.
Learn more.
Vogt Awards Info Session
The Vogt Awards Info Session is designed to help prospective applicants learn more about this year’s program and funding opportunities for early-stage entrepreneurs. During the session, attendees will receive an overview of the Vogt Awards, including program benefits, eligibility requirements, the application process, and key dates.
Register today.
A Legacy of Innovation
Supportive. Vibrant. Energetic. These are the words we often hear used to describe Louisville’s entrepreneurs. The Louisville startup community nurtures a culture of growth, innovation, and perseverance. The Vogt Invention and Innovations Awards stands as a testament to that culture, and the legacy it has developed grew from an inventor and a company beginning almost 150 years ago.
2025 Vogt Awards Cohort
These six early-stage businesses were selected as the recipients of the 25th Vogt Invention and Innocation Awards. In addition to receiving non-dilutive grant funding, they participated in a 10-week accelerator program, receiving coaching, mentorship, strategic introductions, and other valuable resources to grow their new businesses.
Learn more about our 2025 recipients.
The Tremendous Legacy behind the Vogt Awards
The Vogt Invention & Innovation Fund and Awards is celebrating its 26th year. 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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