The Challenge
The Innovation Challenge recognizes NAB Show exhibitors within the PropelME community that are poised to help broadcasters rise to some of the key challenges and opportunities they are likely to face over the next 2-3 years. Any PropelME exhibitor with a product or solution that is relevant to broadcasters is eligible to enter the Innovation Challenge. Winners will receive a travel stipend and additional opportunities for recognition and networking with broadcasters as outlined below.
PropelME is the destination to see early-stage products from qualified startups eager to explore, learn, collaborate, and drive impactful change within their respective markets. Located in West Hall at 2025 NAB Show, PropelME offers a range of exhibit options such as Exhibit Space, Counter Packages, and Pod Packages for startups to showcase their innovative products.
Learn more about the PropelME opportunities at NAB Show.
If you are a PropelME exhibitor, submit your entry to the PILOT Innovation Challenge.
Timeline
Submissions Open
January 22, 2025
Submissions Close
February 21, 2025 at 5 p.m. ET
Judging
February 24 – March 23, 2025
Winners Announced
March 24, 2025
NAB Show
April 5-9, 2025
Winners
If selected, winners will receive:
- Travel stipend of $2500 per company to offset transportation and lodging expenses associated with exhibiting at the 2025 NAB Show
- Opportunity to make a presentation about their company or product at the 2025 NAB Show
- Identification as a PILOT Innovation Challenge winner in NAB/PILOT/NAB Show publications
- Profile on the PILOT website
- Opportunity to write a guest blog post on the PILOT blog
- One-on-one coaching session with NAB’s CTO about what to expect and how to get the most out of the NAB Show
- Additional opportunities to work with NAB member companies as part of an ongoing relationship with PILOT
Selection Process
Up to 10 finalists may be selected by a panel of industry experts based on the judging criteria. The finalists will be notified in February and continue to the final phase where they will be interviewed by a panel of judges from the PILOT team. Up to three winners may be selected and notified by March 24, 2025.
Judging Criteria
- Readiness – How close is the product to being ready for use by broadcasters? Is there a clear path for broadcaster use? (1/3)
- Relevance – How well does this submission meet the needs of the broadcasting industry? (1/3)
- Viability – How likely will this be implemented and used by broadcasters? (1/3)
Eligibility
Open to any PropelME exhibitor, who is a legal resident of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia. For more information, view the full Challenge rules.