How to Apply
“The Vogt Awards were a turning point in my startup journey, as they provided invaluable support from a community of mentors, entrepreneurs, investors, and well-wishers. Being part of this community infused a great deal of value into XENA, and the credibility we gained through the experience was truly priceless.”
2022 VOGT AWARD WINNER: AKHIL SURESH NAIR | FOUNDER & CEO | XENA INTELLIGENCE
The 25th Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards application is closed.
The application will open in Spring 2026 for next year’s cohort.
What You Need to Succeed
Vogt Awards Selection Committee Chair
Maggie Harlow, Co-Owner of Signarama, has served as Vogt Awards Selection Committee Chair since 2024. Maggie has been a fixture in the Louisville business community for more than 20 years. Her entrepreneurial background, community involvement, and dedication to the Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards program make her the perfect choice to lead this year’s selection committee.
Read more information about Maggie in the Foundation's blog.
Vogt Awards Demo Day
The 10-week accelerator program wraps up with a highly engaging “Demo Day” event. The event features introductions of the founders and their company pitch presentations. Attendees include entrepreneurs, investors, and the Louisville startup community.
The day is a public celebration of everything that the Vogt Awards founders’ pure grit, drive, and determination that allowed them to create something new and innovative — hopefully, something with the right product-market fit that will go on to become a successful venture.
This year's Vogt Awards Demo Day is scheduled for Thursday, November 13, at the Kentucky Derby Museum.
The Selection Committee
The Vogt Awards Selection Committee has the challenging task of reviewing the competitive applications for the program and making the final decision for this year’s cohort. They represent a diverse group of Vogt Awards alumni, founders, entrepreneurs, investors and service providers who care about the quality and continued legacy of the Vogt Awards. The committee members will be announced at a later date.
We're Here to Answer Your Questions!
Executive Director, Impact Investing
502.855.6982
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