Commercialization Competition
Application Info Session Webinar
Webinar Summary
The session, led by Patty Rechberger (Innovation Fund Manager at FuzeHub), provided a comprehensive overview of the 2025 FuzeHub Commercialization Competition. Key points:
About FuzeHub & Programs: FuzeHub is the statewide Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center in New York, offering funding, matchmaking, events, and marketing support. The Commercialization Competition is part of the Jeff Lawrence Innovation Fund and targets early-stage, pre-revenue, pre-seed companies to help move prototypes toward commercialization.
Funding & Awards:
– Up to $150,000 investment via a SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity).
– Four awards planned: two at $80K, one at $100K, and one at $150K.
– Provides marketing exposure, validation, and pitch coaching.
Eligibility:
– Must be a registered company physically located in NY State, with at least one founder residing in NY.
– Must have a tangible prototype (some software allowed if tied to hardware or manufacturing).
– Must be pre-seed & pre-revenue:
• Less than $100K lifetime revenue.
• Less than $500K investments.
• Less than $2M in grants since July 2023.
Action Items for a Successful Application
Step 1: Eligibility & Prepare Documents for Stage 1
- Confirm financial caps (revenue, investment, grants).
- Ensure tangible prototype is ready for demonstration.
- Verify DUNS registration with NAICS code.
- Executed NYS formation/incorporation documents or proof of NY address.
- Proof of founder’s NY residency.
- P&L report (yearly breakdown + 2025 YTD).
- PR blurb (non-technical, compelling for media).
Step 2: Develop Stage 2 Application
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- Prepare pitch deck using FuzeHub’s template.
- Create a 10-minute video pitch
- Introduce team, tell story, align with scoring rubric.
- Present investment pitch based on the FuzeHub template deck previously prepared.
- Demonstrate prototype in action.
- Explain how $80K will “move the needle”.
- Complete project budget (for $80K) using FuzeHub’s template.
- Pay $75 application fee.
Step 3: Technical & Timing Precautions
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- Begin application early; do not wait until August 8.
- Upload video at least several hours before the deadline.
- Save SurveyMonkey Apply login info (email address and password) in safe location to guarantee timely application access.
Step 4: Understand Post-Selection Requirements
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- Be prepared to sign SAFE within 5 business days if awarded.
- Provide a cap table if selected as a finalist.
- Attend and pitch at the Innovation Summit (October 29 – 30, 2025).
Posted/Modified
July 24, 2025. Please check back to this site for any updates.