Step 1: First Base
Get Started: Step Up to the Plate! ⚾
Welcome to Startup Spring Training 2025!
To get started, first complete the Registration Form to share your basic contact information and join the Startup Spring Training mailing list.
Next, complete your Player Profile by uploading a headshot photo, sharing your program goals, and providing a few details about your business or idea. This information will be used to create your official SST25 Player Card, making you an official member of the team and unlocking access to all Startup Spring Training events, resources, and opportunities.
Once your Player Profile is submitted and approved (usually within a few hours), your personalized Player Card will be live on the Players Page and you'll be officially in the game, working your way around the bases and taking steps toward earning rewards, building connections, and growing your business.
First Base Checklist:
Complete these steps to reach First Base.
Register by completing a basic contact form.
Complete your Player Profile, including uploading a headshot photo, sharing a program goal, and submitting short answers about your business or idea.
First Base Winnings:
Become an official player with the ability to earn prizes.
Get your Player Card featured on the Startup Spring Training website.
Step 2: Second Base
Second Base Checklist: Time to Advance Your Game! ⚾
You’re off to a strong start—now let’s take it to Second Base!
To get there, make sure you’ve completed all the First Base requirements (register and complete your Player Profile). Then, head to the Schedule page to RSVP for training events that feel relevant to you and your business.
After you've attended and participated in three (3) of these training events you'll advance to Second Base. Don’t forget to follow the instructions provided during the event to check into the session and ensure your attendance is recorded.
Once you’ve reached Second Base, you’ll earn a ticket for a one-on-one Mentor Session with a business expert of your choice, giving you personalized guidance to keep moving forward.
Second Base Checklist:
Complete these steps to reach Second Base.
Complete all First Base requirements listed above.
Register for Startup Spring Training events on the Schedule page.
Attend at least three (3) Startup Spring Training events, either in person or virtually.
Check in at each event to ensure your attendance is recorded. Check-in instructions will be provided at each event.
Second Base Winnings:
Receive a ticket for a one-on-one Mentor Session with a business expert of your choice.
Step 3: Third Base
Almost There—Keep Pushing! ⚾
You’re on fire! To reach Third Base, make sure you’ve completed all the First and Second Base requirements, including attending at least three (3) events and earning a ticket for your one-on-one Mentor Session.
Next, schedule your one-on-one Mentorship Session using the scheduling link provided in your Second Base confirmation email. Take a few minutes to review your program goals in preparation for your Mentor Session so you can make the most of this opportunity.
After completing your Mentorship Session, submit the Mentor Feedback Form to verify your attendance and share your experience. You'll receive a link to this form at the conclusion of your Mentor Session.
Reaching Third Base comes with an exciting reward: a free ticket ($199 value) to attend the 2-Day Launch Camp on April 3-4, 2025. This program provides hands-on guidance and insights to take your business to the next level. Participating in 2-Day Launch Camp earns you an exclusive opportunity to share your elevator pitch on stage at the Startup Spring Training Closing Event!
Third Base Checklist:
Complete these steps to reach Third Base.
Complete all First and Second Base requirements listed above.
Schedule a one-on-one Mentorship Session. Check your inbox for the scheduling link.
Prepare for and attend your Mentorship Session.
Submit the Mentorship Feedback Form provided at the end of your session to share your experience and confirm your attendance.
Third Base Winnings:
Receive a free ticket ($199 value) to attend 2-Day Launch Camp on April 3-4, 2025.
Step 4: Home Base
Bring it Home, Allstar Player! ⚾
You’ve made it this far, and now it’s time to bring it home!
To reach Home Base, make sure you’ve completed all the First, Second, and Third Base requirements, including: Submitting your Player Profile, attending at least three (3) Startup Spring Training events, and completing a one-on-one Mentor Session with a Startup Spring Training mentor.
Now, it’s time for your final challenge to reach Home Base:
- Complete Your Impact Canvas
- Download and fill out the Impact Canvas worksheet to map out your business vision, key milestones, and next steps.
- Record Your 30-Second Elevator Pitch Video
- Use your computer webcam or mobile device—no fancy equipment needed!
- Keep it informal and authentic—this doesn’t need to be high-production.
- Clearly explain:
- What problem you are solving
- Who your business serves
- How your product or service creates impact
- Imagine you’re introducing your business to an investor, mentor, or potential partner—how would you make them want to learn more?
- New to pitching? Use the Elevator Pitch Template for help getting started!
- Write Your Investment Intentions Statement
- Answer the prompt: "How will you invest in yourself and your business after Startup Spring Training?”
- Keep it short and powerful—this is your chance to reflect on what you’ve learned and how you’ll apply it.
- You’ll share your statement directly in the Home Base Submission Form when submitting your Impact Canvas and Elevator Pitch.
- Submit All 3 Components via the Home Base Submission Form
- Your submission will be verified within two business days, and you’ll receive a Home Run confirmation email.
- Once confirmed, you'll be an official SEED SPOT alumnus and Startup Spring Training Allstar!
- Your Home Run confirmation email will contain instructions for collecting your $500 microgrant if you meet the recipient qualifications.
Home Base Checklist:
Complete these steps to reach Home Base.
Complete all First, Second, and Third Base requirements listed above, including:
- Submitted Player Profile
- Attended at least 3 Startup Spring Training sessions
- Completed a one-on-one Mentor Session
Download and fill out the Impact Canvas worksheet
Create and record your 30-Second Elevator Pitch Video
Prepare your Investment Intentions Statement
Submit your Impact Canvas worksheet, Elevator Pitch Video recording, and Investment Intentions Statement via the Home Base Submission Form
Home Base Winnings:
Gain SEED SPOT Alumni Status, a lifetime membership that includes ongoing mentorship, business resources, and funding opportunities to help you grow your business!
Get official recognition as a Startup Spring Training MVP on the Startup Spring Training website
The first 100 eligible participants to reach Home Base will receive a $500 microgrant to use however you'd like to invest in yourself and your business!
Microgrant Instructions
How to Claim Your $500 ⚾
Participants who meet the eligibility criteria for the $500 microgrant will receive instructions on how to claim their funds after completing all Home Base requirements. Once your submission has been reviewed and approved, you will receive a Home Run confirmation email with next steps.
The microgrant process ensures that payments are processed securely and in compliance with financial regulations. Please follow the instructions carefully to avoid delays.
Complete these steps to receive your microgrant once you’ve qualified:
- Complete and submit your W9 IRS tax form.
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- A W9 form is a required IRS tax form that collects your taxpayer identification number (TIN) so SEED SPOT can process your grant payment.
- This IRS form requires you to provide either your Social Security Number (SSN) or an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- Even if you received a microgrant in a previous season, you must submit a new W9 for this year.
What to expect in the confirmation email:
-
- A secure link where you will upload and submit your W9 electronically.
- A downloadable W9 form.
- A step-by-step guide on how to complete the form correctly.
What you need to do:
-
- Download and complete your W9 IRS tax form.
- Upload your completed W9 using the secure submission link provided in the email.
- Confirm or Set Up Your Bill.com Account.
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- Bill.com is a secure payment platform used by SEED SPOT to process microgrant payments via direct deposit (ACH).
- If you are a first-time microgrant recipient:
- The confirmation email will contain a registration link to create your free Bill.com account.
- Instructions will walk you through setting up your payment preferences, including linking your bank account or opting for a paper check.
- If you've previously received a microgrant during a past Startup Spring Training season:
- You should already have a Bill.com account and do not need to create a new one.
- However, you should verify that your payment details are still correct by logging in at
app.bill.com and navigating to Settings → Payment Information.
What you need to do:
-
- New recipients: Follow the registration link in your confirmation email to create your Bill.com account.
- Returning recipients: Log in to Bill.com and verify your payment details.
- Check for a confirmation email upon paperwork submission.
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- Once SEED SPOT receives and verifies your documents, you will receive a final confirmation email stating that your microgrant is being processed.
- If there are any issues (such as a missing or incorrect W9), the SEED SPOT team will reach out to you for corrections before processing your payment.
What you need to do:
-
- Look for this email to confirm your paperwork has been received and verified.
- If you do not receive a confirmation email within 10 business days, follow up with accounting@seedspot.org.
⏳ Processing Time & Support
- If you have received a confirmation email verifying your paperwork, be assured that your microgrant is on its way.
- Please be patient as the accounting process may take up to four weeks before funds arrive in your account.
- If you have not received your funds by May 1, 2025, reach out to accounting@seedspot.org for a status update.
Microgrant Checklist:
Complete these steps to receive your microgrant.
Ensure that you meet the microgrant qualifications, have completed all necessary requirements, and have received a Home Base confirmation email.
Download and fill out a W9 IRS tax form.
Upload your completed W9 using the secure submission link provided in the Home Base confirmation email.
Create or confirm your Bill.com account.
Look for a final confirmation email from SEED SPOT stating that your microgrant is being processed.
Be patient while your microgrant is processed. If you have not received your funds by May 1, 2025, reach out to accounting@seedspot.org.