2024 National Pitch

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Students Pitch for Real Funding

Every year, INCubatoredu teams from around the world submit to compete at this National Pitch event. This event is the highlight of Summit, and provides an opportunity for students not only to pitch for real funding, but gain the experience of a lifetime. More than $150,000 has been awarded to date by real investors who share sharp insight, encouragement, and real-world guidance to these young founders.

"The National Pitch was an experience of a lifetime—it set me up for what is now my focus post-high school."

~ Josh Jay James, INCubatoredu Alum; Co-Founder & CMO, Allergenius Baking Company; 2019 INCubatoredu National Pitch Winner; Co-Founder / Lab Director at OTHER.OOO

2017-07-18 INC Summit - National Pitch 28

"Every entrepreneur remembers the first outside investment made in their business—validation that their idea has potential. At Uncharted Learning we are committed to creating these moments for young entrepreneurs."

~ Michael Miles, Co-Founder, Uncharted Learning, NFP; Private Equity Investor

Student Team Granted Funding

In Funding Awarded

Submissions to National Pitch since 2017

Number of annual INCubatoredu Pitch Events

A Unique, High-Value Opportunity

HOW DOES THIS WORK—Submission and the event?

INCubatoredu students can compete by submitting their ideas. Finalists get the chance to pitch in Chicago at the 'INCubatoredu National Pitch Event' during Summit. Teams have 10 minutes to impress real investors. This is not a simulation; it's the real world! All Summit attendees are welcome to attend and support the teams, gaining insight into the students' year-long achievements.

What's in it for students?

Students have the opportunity to compete on a national stage in Chicago, meet peers from all over the country, and present to real investors who will judge the competition and potentially award funding. The opportunity is like none other for these young founders as they experience firsthand, the thrill, joy (and sometimes disappointment) of a pitch experience that is real-world entrepreneurship.

WHY SHOULD SCHOOLS SUPPORT PARTICIPATION?

National Pitch is a special opportunity for students, providing an energizing experience from submissions to finals. It exposes students to the business world and public speaking, enhancing their resumes, whether they aspire to a 'startup' life or other post-high school paths. Finalist teams are recognized and celebrated, and details on team nominations will be emailed to all members.