Behind the scenes

If you’re a startup you may have wondered how Le Camping selection process works and what goes on behind the scenes of this community-based accelerator.

Le Camping opened applications for Season 3 more than 6 weeks ago. Throughout this period, we saw nearly 400 applications created and over 190 startups fill out and submit complete applications.

During the application period, several startups came to Le Camping to learn more about the program and experience the environment that makes it so unique. About 20 teams took this opportunity and more than 80 startuppers showed up to the open doors event hosted in late March.

What Le Camping looks for is simple

Great entrepreneurs in complementary teams:

** Ready to execute a brilliant idea, hand in hand with users

** Able to listen and use Le Camping’s pool of mentors and experts,

** Capable of understanding the meaning and value of a growing community.

Now, the nitty gritty, until May 8

Twenty of Le Camping’s mentors, old and new, but also Campers from seasons 1 and 2, are assigned applications based on their expertise and skills. Many are entrepreneurs, some are investors and yet others, experts in a particular field. This wide variety of skills makes for an excellent panel of evaluators.

Over the course of 3 weeks, each application is reviewed by at least 3 evaluators and rated on a 5-star system. Evaluators add comments for the teams in order to provide feedback. In the end, 50 applications remain.

Phase 2, face time (May 10, 11, 14, 15)

Each team is scheduled for a videoconference interview with a panel of 5 people, all having participated in the first phase. We spend time learning about the team and understanding how they view their project.

It’s not about the idea, but rather about the team, their vision and their fit with Le Camping.
From this phase, only 24 teams are retained.

Phase 3, formal meetings (May 21,22)

With participation from mentors, experts and partners, the panel of 8 evaluators becomes even more diverse. The teams pitch and demo for 8 minutes.

The pitch is followed by a Q&A session with the team that helps us learn more about the project and clarify any unclear points.

In addition, it’s the best time to feel the people. We like motivation, excitement, passion and contribution. If it’s the right fit, then the team moves into the big leagues. The 12 selected teams have a chance to make history as Le Camping’s third class.

We’re now reviewing all the applications with careful attention. We thank all the participants for the trust they have put in us. Let’s keep it touch… until the next round of selection!

Le Camping Team