Compete for Funds to Pursue Your Dreams
Kentucky wants your business to succeed in the Bluegrass. We’re here to help get you started with the commonwealth’s largest intercollegiate pitch competition. Make your case for the money and experience a real-world entrepreneurial event.
Funding
Your dreams require dollars to become reality. This opportunity provides access to capital for your enterprise.
Feedback
Receive critically important input on your idea from experienced business and community leaders to help improve your plan.
Connections
Network with other collegiate entrepreneurs, instructors, and established professionals. Grow your personal entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Collegiate Pitch 2026
Here's what aspiring entrepreneurs say about their Collegiate Pitch experience.
Important Dates
December 12, 2026
Intent to Compete Due
January 27, 2027
Business Plans Due
February 10, 2027
Selected Teams Announced
March 3, 2027
Pitch Deck Due
March 6, 2027
Pitch Event
Location TBD
How It Works
Collegiate Pitch has two categories: The Exploratory Track and the Developed Track.
The Exploratory Track is for early-stage business ideas. The Developed Track is for businesses closer to being launched or already operating. Monetary prizes are awarded in both tracks. To be eligible for the prize money, businesses must be based in Kentucky as they grow over the next few years.
Take the next steps in your entrepreneurial journey:
Connect with Your Faculty Advisor
Participating colleges must have a designated faculty advisor. To enter the competition, student applications must be approved by their faculty advisor.
Apply
The application process includes notifying us of your intent to compete and submitting a business model.
Make Your Pitch
Teams selected to compete are required to make their pitch in person during the event.
Submit Expenses for Funding
Winning teams are reimbursed for their approved expenses.
This allowed me to view my business from someone else’s perspective, and I was able to take the constructive criticism and apply it to make my business better.
The competition solidified that our business idea had value, and gave valuable guidance for the next steps. A great experience!
2026 Winners
Developed Track
1st Place
$15,000
Claustrum Design
2nd Place
$7,000
EdgeTrack Solutions
3rd Place (Tie)
$5,000
Wav-Aid
3rd Place (Tie)
$5,000
Sunny Sign Up
Exploratory Track
1st Place
$5,000
CochleoFit
2nd Place
$4,000
The Dapper Kernal
3rd Place
$3,000
Commencement Closet
We’re so grateful for our supporters who make it possible for GSE’s programs to be FREE for students
Apply Now for Collegiate Pitch
There is no charge to submit your business idea. Take a chance to win funding, and gain vital real-world business experience along the way. Kentucky is rooting for you!