THE LAUNCHPAD Pitch Competition 2026

About

A pitch competition offering early-stage entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their business ideas, receive coaching, and compete for a total prize pool of $5,000, while connecting with investors and gaining valuable exposure in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Benefits

• 🏆Prize Money
  $5,000 total prize pool with $3,000 for the winner and $1,000 for each runner-up
• 🎓Pitch Coaching
  Individualized pitch coaching provided to finalists before the event
• 🌐Networking Opportunities
  Connect with investors and other entrepreneurs during the event
• 📈Visibility
  Gain exposure by presenting to a live audience and panel of judges
• 🎤Experience
  Participate in a high-energy, Shark Tank-style pitch competition

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be located in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, or Washington Parish
• Must actively participate in the Northshore entrepreneurial ecosystem
• Must have received less than $50,000 in investment to date
• Must have generated less than $250,000 in revenue to date
• Must have a viable business model with a strong management team

Participation Commitments

• Must submit an application by the deadline of July 5, 2026
• Must attend the pitch event on July 23, 2026
• Must prepare and deliver a pitch to the judges and audience
• Must demonstrate commitment to the Northshore entrepreneurial ecosystem

Target Region

Open to entrepreneurs in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and Washington Parish

Target Sector

Focused on early-stage startups and entrepreneurship