Yesterday I met with Mary Holmes from Seattle's Zino Society, an interesting group whose mission, among hosting a high degree of wine-oriented social events, includes supporting the growth and success of entrepreneurial ventures. The Society's history is an interesting one; I'll let you read more about them on their website.

One of the 40-odd events that the Zino Society runs throughout any given year, the Zino Zillionaire Investment Forum provides small startups to vie for up to $100,000. The interesting part of this competition is that the decision of a funding winner is made on the same day as the presentations--talk about instant gratification (or instant depression).

Here is Mary's note about applying to present at the event:

We are now taking applications for presenting companies for ZINO Zillionaire Investment Forum.  If you know of any companies who are looking early-stage or expansion capital, please direct them to apply.  Applications will be accepted through July 25, 2008.

http://www.zinosociety.com/entrepreneurs/applytopresent/zzif2008/.\

ZINO Zillionaire Investment Forum

September 16, 9am-5pm at the Fairmont Hotel, Seattle. 

28 companies will be selected to present.  At the close of the event Fund Investors will award $150,000. 

$50,000 for Best Technology Investment

$50,000 for Best Non-Technology Investment

$50,000 for Best Overall Investment (CG -- this basically means that one of the top two winners gets $100k, and the other gets $50k.)

I haven't attended any of the Zino Society's events before, but look forward to checking this event out.