The future
doesn't just happen.
Someone builds it. The ESEY awards exist to find those people early - founders under four years in, pre-Series A, already bending
an industry toward what
comes next.
BACKING THE FUTURE
FROM THE START.
BACKING THE FUTURE FROM THE START.
Founding is lonely work, done mostly in the dark. The wins are quiet, the doubts are loud, and the recognition arrives long after the hardest part is over. We built the ESEYs to change that. Because the right idea can change an industry, and the right room can change its trajectory.
Celebrate the people building.
The future doesn't build itself. We celebrate the founders turning what comes next into what comes now.
Put the future in the room.
You're already building it. We put it in front of investors, industry leaders, and partners who can back it.
Back what comes next.
The future needs more than applause. It needs backing — $250,000 from Day Zero and the support to take it further.
Build the future together.
No one builds the future alone. Every applicant joins a community, and the tools and connections to keep moving.
Bringing
Founders &
Partners
closer
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS.
How many people win?
Why should I apply?
Who can apply?
Do I need to be an OPUS member?
When do applications close?
What is the application process?
How are winners selected?
Do I apply as a company or an individual?
Can I apply for more than one category?
I'm not a founder, can I still be involved?
Is there a fee to apply?
Who can I contact if I have questions?
YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE
Applications now open
APPLY NOW
