The Open Source Business Award (OSBA) is a business plan competition with a focus on open source business models. By way of competition, the OSBA seeks to provide a platform for open source start ups to access venture capital.
In both 2008 and 2009 a dozen nominations of high caliber were received. Of these, in each year 3 winners were awarded prize money totaling more than € 150,000.
To qualify for the competition, a well-developed business plan is required, in which open source is a key strategic element. Our Campus Coaches are available to assist in reviewing business concepts, and offer support in the early stages of the business plan. We also offer personal introductions to venture capitalists, private equity firms and angel investors.
If you already have a well-developed business concept, you can submit your business plan direct to Richard Seibt for evaluation and feedback. To ensure you meet the competition criteria and conditions, email a rough sketch of your business idea to our office. The Board of Directors will formally announce the competition for the year, once a sufficient number of submissions have been received.