P.R.O.P.E.L. will focus on technology-driven companies that are solving real-world challenges identified by industry and government partners. By aligning innovation with defined needs, P.R.O.P.E.L. creates a targeted environment where entrepreneurs can develop solutions that are relevant, scalable, and positioned for adoption.

Entrepreneurs will take center stage during a live pitch competition, presenting their companies to a panel of judges for the opportunity to win cash prizes that can help fuel their next stage of growth. Attendees can also expect engaging panel discussions focused on essential topics for scaling technology-based businesses, including securing capital, navigating government and industry partnerships, attracting top talent, and leveraging emerging technologies. These sessions are designed to provide practical insights and direct pathways to opportunity for founders working to bring impactful solutions to market.

Whether you’re an emerging entrepreneur, an established small business owner, a corporate innovator, a government customer, an industry partner, or an ecosystem builder, the P.R.O.P.E.L. Summit offers the tools, connections, and context needed to accelerate innovation that meets real demand.

Join us as we promote entrepreneurship, open new doors, and P.R.O.P.E.L. technology-driven solutions into the future.

Coming soon!

Booz Allen Hamilton

gener8tor Huntsville

HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology

Huntsville Utilities

Innovate Alabama

Invention to Innovation Center (I²C) at The University of Alabama in Huntsville

Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and APEX Accelerator

The Catalyst Center for Business and Entrepreneurship

Application link – Coming Soon!

Who should apply?

Startup Founders & Entrepreneurs innovating in a technology based industry who have identified a problem they are solving with their prototype, MVP, or early product but need capital and partnerships to scale.

Those seeking visibility, funding, and strategic partnerships to validate their business model and enter the next stage of growth.

$60,000 in awards!

3rd place = $10,000
2nd place = $20,000
1st place = $30,000

Angie Sandritter
CEO
Hubtricity

Ashley Engles-Ross
VP Small Business
Huntsville/Madison County Chamber

Austin Goble
Senior Director, Programs & Partnerships
The Catalyst Center for Business & Entrepreneurship

Dillon Fritz, PhD
VP for Economic Development and Commercialization
HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology

Rigved Joshi
Assistant Vice President – Innovation & Entrepreneurship / Director – Invention to Innovation Center (I²C)
The University of Alabama in Huntsville

Rochelle Silvera
Associate Vice President
Gener8tor

Valentina Iscaro
Clinical Associate Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship
The University of Alabama Huntsville

Coming soon!

• Startup Founders & Entrepreneurs – Particularly those innovating in Technology sectors
  
  
• Individuals or teams looking to pitch, gain visibility, and attract resources or partnerships.
  
  
• Small Business Owners – Especially those aiming for sustainable growth or exploring innovation and tech integration; and those seeking resources, connections, or exposure to new opportunities.
  
  
• Investors & Venture Capitalists – Looking to discover emerging ventures in targeted industries.
  
  
• Corporate & Industry Partners – especially in technology the summit’s focus sectors, looking to partner with or support startups, or identify innovative suppliers or solutions.
  
  
• Entrepreneur Support Organizations & Resource Providers – incubators, accelerators, technical assistance providers, etc.; those seeking to engage with entrepreneurs, offer tools, and expand their networks.
  
  
• Community Stakeholders & Ecosystem Builders – People who play a role in engaging and connecting different parts of the entrepreneurial pipeline.