The Selection Advisory Committee will evaluate candidates for the Launch Pad using the following criteria:

1 - Perceived viability of the venture, as measured by:

• “Platform” nature of the technology
• Uniqueness of the product/service offered
• Novel use of information technologies
• Market size addressed by the idea
• Strength and composition of the management team
• Progress to date, i.e. partnerships leveraged, bootstrapping

2 - Appropriateness of the business for the Carolina Launch Pad as measured by:

• The venture's IT orientation
• The number of employees or participants
• Potential synergies with other participants
• Early stage, pre-revenue, pre-funding status
• Demonstrated understanding of how the Carolina Launch Pad will help further develop the business idea

3 - Demonstrated commitment by management to launching the business

The number of firms selected during each admissions round will be based on the physical space limitations of the facility. It is anticipated that up to five applicants will be admitted to the Launch Pad each year. The Selection Advisory Committee will focus on admitting participants that can both benefit from, and contribute to, the success of the overall program.