- Event: The eLab Agent-First Startup Challenge @ ClawCon Michigan
- Date: April 16, 2026
- Application deadline: Closed on April 16 at 5:00 PM ET
- Audience: AI-first founders / agentic startups
- Results: Winner to be announced during the ClawCon Event
- Applications: Closed
ClawCon Founder Submission
Apply for a chance to win a $50,000 uncapped SAFE! Submit the 3 required uploads: company .json package (single-file or segmented kit), deck .pdf, and founder video .mp4 or .mov (note that the video must be less than 2 minutes long).
About this opportunity
The eLab Agent-First Startup Challenge is the first 100% AI-judged startup competition for early-stage agentic AI startups. Founders submit their company information in .json format, pitch deck, and short video to be reviewed and judged by eLab’s panel of OpenClaw AI agents. The AI-selected winner will receive a $50,000 uncapped SAFE investment.
Qualification criteria
- AI startups that have raised less than $1M in capital
- Startups with less than $1M in ARR
- Existing eLab portfolio companies are not eligible
- Applicants must be present at the Crisler Arena ClawCon event on April 16 to be eligible to win.
Submit your ClawCon application
If you run into any issue submitting your application, please message submit@elabvc.com and we’ll make sure your submission is received.