By Ashley Reyes
competition with his Impulse—Emergency Brake Light. The
2021 SEMA Launch Pad competition is open to all qualified
participants over the age of 18 years, and includes a grand-
prize package valued up to $92,000 and promotional support.
Emerging entrepreneurs and inventors have until May 30 to submit their applications for the SEMA Launch Pad. Through the SEMA Launch Pad, those with a functioning automotive-related product or accessory will have the chance to win a prize package valued at $92,000 to help launch their product or service into the marketplace.
Originally created to support emerging entrepreneurs under the age of 40, this year’s program does not have an age cap and is open to qualified individuals 18 and over. The prizes have also increased to include a grand-prize package valued up to $92,000, cash awarded to the top three finalists and featured video interviews promoting dozens of applicants on SEMA’s social media networks.
Fifteen semi-finalists will be selected to attend the 2021 SEMA Show in November, where the top five will pitch their products to a panel of industry judges and be recognized at the industry’s premier celebration—the SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet.
Past products included have been selected from segments such as vehicle technology, restyling, truck and off-road and more, although the program is not limited to any product that has the potential to positively impact the future of the aftermarket industry.
To qualify, applicants must be a business owner, company-leading executive (president, CEO, CFO, COO) or vice president of a company, and must offer a product or service that is a functioning prototype or concept or currently available for sale.