The 2014 InvestMidwest Venture Capital Forum, scheduled March 26 and 27 in St. Louis, is accepting applications from high-growth companies seeking venture capital to advance their ideas in the life sciences, technology and food/ag/bioenergy industries. Early application deadline is Nov. 15. Final application deadline is Jan. 10.

Since its inception, the InvestMidwest Venture Capital Forum has helped generate more than $1 billion in equity investments for entrepreneurial growth companies. InvestMidwest 2013 attracted 300 attendees and 41 emerging companies, which presented their business plans to more than 70 of the nation’s top venture capitalists, corporate investors and angel investors.

“We encourage entrepreneurs to get their applications in by the early deadline of Nov. 15,” said InvestMidwest Executive Director Chris Walsh. “This allows the selection committee time and flexibility to obtain any clarification from a company on its application, which can impact whether they are selected to present.”

Companies selected to present at InvestMidwest 2014, which will take place at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch, must be privately held and seeking venture funds in excess of $1 million, and have the potential to generate at least $20 million in annual revenue in the next five years.

“Equity investments come not only through the relationships sparked at each forum,” Walsh said, “but also through the experience that presenting companies get, which helps them to better sell their opportunities long after the event.”

For more information, go to investmidwestforum.com.