Salesforce Introduces AI Pitchfield Competition for Startups in Southeast Asia and India, with $100,000 Investment for Winner

Shortlisted startups will have an opportunity to pitch to Salesforce Ventures, Lightspeed Venture Partners and other notable VCs, with additional VC speed-dating sessions for all applicants

SINGAPORE, 31 October 2024 – Salesforce today announced the inaugural edition of AI Pitchfield, a pitch competition inviting AI-driven startups across Southeast Asia and India to compete for a US$100,000 investment from Salesforce Ventures. This initiative, led by the Salesforce Startup Community, provides AI-focused entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to showcase their innovations to top-tier investors, including Lightspeed Venture Partners, in a high-stakes, dynamic competition​​.

Participating startups can expect the following  from AI Pitchfield:

• Funding: The top startup will receive a $100,000 Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) investment from Salesforce Ventures, positioning them for accelerated growth and market impact
• Opportunity to pitch to leading investors: Shortlisted startups will pitch live to a panel that includes top investors from Lightspeed Venture Partners and other renowned firms, gaining direct exposure to AI and venture capital experts
• VC speed-dating for all applicants: Each participating startup is eligible for a dedicated speed-dating session with venture capitalists, which expands networking opportunities and opens doors for future investment conversations

Applications are now open and will close on 15 November 2024. Following the application period, all submissions will undergo a rigorous review and due diligence process, with the top 5 finalists to be announced on December 9, 2024.

Finalists will present their business plans to an investor panel, including representatives from Salesforce Ventures and Lightspeed Venture Partners, during a “live” event on 9 January. 

To participate in AI Pitchfield, startups must meet the following criteria:

• Offer a B2B SaaS, AI-first, or AI-enabled product or service in the technology sector.
• Be in the pre-seed, seed, or Series A fundraising stage.
• Have received at least US$500,000 in prior venture funding from a reputable venture capital firm.
• Have a minimum of five paying customers.
• Be incorporated as a corporation based in India or Singapore.
• Completed Salesforce’s standard due diligence and background checks​​.

Interested startups can apply by submitting a pitch deck, product demo video, and financial information on the AI Pitchfield website.