The Perlman Grand Prize is awarded to the startup team deemed by our finalist judges to represent the best of Penn entrepreneurship. This award is made possible by a generous endowed donation from Richard E. Perlman (W’68).

The William G. Simpson and R. Drew Kistler Runner Up Prize is the Startup Challenge’s second-place finalist. Funding for this award and the operations of the Startup Challenge program is made possible by the generous endowed gift of the Simpson Foundation.

The Linn Family Innovation Prize is awarded to the team that is pursuing a venture that introduces a new product, service, or business model. Funding for this award is provided by the generous donation of Missy Bechler Linn, NU’91 and Eric A. Linn, W’92.

This award is presented to a venture that is creating a positive social impact. Funding for this award is provided by the generous donation of Andrew Jacobson, WG’93 and Marina Kunis Jacobson, G’93.

This award is presented to the highest-ranking undergraduate team in the Startup Challenge Semifinals or Finals. At least 50% of the team must be made up of Penn undergraduate students. Funding for this award is provided by the generous donation of Emily Mudd SW’36 GR’50 and Frederick H. Gloeckner.

This award is presented to the highest-ranking team in the Startup Challenge Semifinals or Finals who best exemplifies the ability to collaborate across multiple disciplines of study at the University of Pennsylvania. Funding for this award is provided by the generous donation of Michael and Christine Angelakis and the Angelakis Family Foundation.

The Weiss Audience's Choice Award is granted based on audience vote to one of the teams participating in the final round. Funding for this award is provided by the generous donation of George Weiss W’65.

The Khan Family AI for Business Award is presented to two ventures in the Startup Challenge Semifinals or Finals that best exemplify the use of innovative artificial intelligence in their business.

The Summer Venture Award (SVA) is a $10,000 grant that provides financial support to Penn student founders over the summer in lieu of a full-time internship. Recipients must commit to working full-time on their venture during their final summer internship period at the University. To be considered, applicants must be selected as a Semifinalist or Finalist. Funding for these awards is provided by the generous donation of Mr. and Mrs William F. Holekamp, WG’72 and Marc B. Wolpow W'80, PAR'14 & Robin S. Wolpow PAR'14.