Judging
Judging Criteria for PBR
Each startup will be judged differently based on the stage of that startup. All point scales are based on 50 points with an option 5 bonus points on a judge's choice. Please review the criteria to prepare yourself for the competition.
Questions? Contact us anytime.
🧠 IDEA STAGE
(Concept / Pre-MVP / Validation-light)
Total: 50 points + up to 5 bonus
1. Problem Clarity & Significance — 10 points
- Is the problem clearly defined and easy to understand?
- Is it meaningful, painful, or urgent for a specific audience?
- Does it solve a real problem vs. a “nice to have”?
Score: ___ / 10
2. Solution Concept & Differentiation — 10 points
- Does the solution logically and effectively address the problem?
- Is the idea distinct from existing solutions?
- Is the value proposition clear and compelling?
Score: ___ / 10
3. Market Opportunity & Target Customer — 10 points
- Is the target customer clearly identified?
- Is the market size reasonable and well-articulated?
- Does the idea show potential to scale?
Score: ___ / 10
4. Founder Vision & Insight — 10 points
- Does the founder demonstrate deep understanding of the problem space?
- Is there a compelling “why now” or personal insight?
- Does the vision feel thoughtful and intentional?
Score: ___ / 10
5. Pitch Clarity & Communication — 10 points
- Was the pitch well-structured and easy to follow?
- Did the founder communicate confidently and concisely?
- Was time used effectively?
Score: ___ / 10
⭐ Judge’s Choice Bonus — Up to 5 points
- Exceptional creativity, insight, or inspiration
- Strong emotional resonance or originality
Bonus: ___ / 5
➡️ TOTAL: ___ / 55
🛠 DEVELOPMENT STAGE
(MVP / Beta / Early Users)
Total: 50 points + up to 5 bonus
1. Problem–Solution Fit — 10 points
- Does the product clearly solve the stated problem?
- Is customer feedback informing development?
- Is the use case validated beyond assumptions?
Score: ___ / 10
2. Product Execution & Readiness — 10 points
- Is there a working MVP, prototype, or beta?
- Does the product demonstrate thoughtful design or functionality?
- Is progress appropriate for this stage?
Score: ___ / 10
3. Market Understanding & Go-to-Market Approach — 10 points
- Is the target customer clearly defined and reachable?
- Is there a logical plan for acquiring users or customers?
- Does pricing or monetization make sense?
Score: ___ / 10
4. Team Capability & Momentum — 10 points
- Does the team have the skills to execute?
- Is there evidence of forward momentum?
- Are roles, gaps, and next steps clearly understood?
Score: ___ / 10
5. Pitch Quality & Storytelling — 10 points
- Was the narrative compelling and easy to follow?
- Did the pitch clearly show progress since ideation?
- Were visuals and timing effective?
Score: ___ / 10
⭐ Judge’s Choice Bonus — Up to 5 points
- Exceptional progress, grit, or clarity
- Strong execution relative to stage
Bonus: ___ / 5
➡️ TOTAL: ___ / 55
📈 TRACTION STAGE
(Revenue / Growth / Up to Series A)
Total: 50 points + up to 5 bonus
1. Problem–Solution Fit (Validated) — 10 points
- Is the original problem still clearly defined and relevant?
- Does the product demonstrably solve the problem at scale?
- Is validation shown through customer behavior, retention, or revenue?
- Are customer insights clearly connected to product decisions?
Score: ___ / 10
This category evaluates whether traction is the result of real value creation—not vanity metrics.
2. Traction & Key Metrics — 10 points
- Are core metrics clearly presented (revenue, growth rate, users, retention)?
- Is traction meaningful relative to market and stage?
- Are trends positive and consistent?
- Do metrics support the narrative?
Score: ___ / 10
3. Business Model & Unit Economics — 10 points
- Is the revenue model clear, scalable, and repeatable?
- Are unit economics understood (CAC, LTV, margins)?
- Is pricing aligned with customer value?
Score: ___ / 10
4. Market Opportunity & Competitive Positioning — 10 points
- Is the market size compelling and well articulated?
- Does the company have a defensible position?
- Is differentiation clear and sustainable?
Score: ___ / 10
5. Team Strength & Execution Capability — 10 points
- Does the team demonstrate strong execution and leadership?
- Are roles, hires, and advisors aligned with growth goals?
- Has the team proven its ability to deliver results?
Score: ___ / 10
⭐ Judge’s Choice Bonus — Up to 5 points
- Exceptional clarity, insight, or momentum
- Strong investor-level presence or breakout potential
Bonus: ___ / 5
➡️ TOTAL: ___ / 55