The deadline for startups to apply for the NXTSTAGE pilot competition is Feb. 15.

The competition, sponsored by NXTUS in Wichita and funded with a $250,000 grant from the Talent Ecosystem Fund at the Wichita Community Foundation, will focus on three core areas — banking and financial services, advanced manufacturing and industrial IoT (Internet of Things) and community health and vibrancy.

The goal of the competition is to help startups that have gotten off the ground reach the next stage of growth. Companies selected to participate will receive paid trips to Wichita and have the opportunity to meet with decision-makers and potential customers face-to-face, a news release from NXTUS, formerly e2e Accelator, explained.

The competition is open to startups across the world that have deployment-ready technologies and innovations that could add value to businesses and communities in the three focus areas.

Applications and more information is available online.