POWER TO PITCH
Power to Pitch is Stimulating Success’s signature pitch competition and small business market showcase, designed to elevate underrepresented entrepreneurs and small business owners. This dynamic platform spotlights emerging nonprofit and for-profit enterprises as they pitch their ventures, showcase their businesses, and share powerful impact stories while competing for capital funding, coaching, scalable tools, and long-term resources that drive sustainable growth.
WHERE VISION
MEETS OPPORTUNITY
Join Stimulating Success in spotlighting bold entrepreneurs and small business owners through Power to Pitch, a high-impact pitch competition where founders compete for capital while receiving powerful storytelling support, targeted technical assistance, and elevated visibility. The experience immerses participants in a connected entrepreneurial ecosystem, fostering peer learning, collaboration, and relationships that extend well beyond the stage.
06
Beyond the Stage
Power To Pitch doesn’t end when the event does. Participants gain visibility, networking opportunities, and connections to funders, mentors, and partners.
HOW DOES POWER TO PITCH COMPETITION WORK ?
Power To Pitch is a live pitch competition designed to help entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders strengthen their ideas, build confidence, and access capital and resources.
Application opens February 2, 2026
01
Apply
Participants are selected through an application process and include early-stage to growth-ready businesses and organizations (1–5 years in operation).
02
Get Selected
Finalists receive guidance and clear expectations to refine their pitch. This may include coaching, templates, or workshops focused on storytelling, financial clarity, and impact.
03
Pitch Live
Participants present their ideas live before a panel of judges and a public audience. Each pitch is time-limited and followed by brief Q&A from the judges.
04
Judging, Evaluation, and Scoring
Judges assess each pitch using criteria including clarity, innovation, feasibility, sustainability, and community or market impact. Finalists earn points through a combination of judges’ scores, social media engagement, and live audience voting during the event.
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Awards & Prizes
Winners receive cash prizes, in-kind services, and business support resources designed to help move their ideas forward.
Cash Prizes:
First Place: $10,000
Second Place: $5,000
Third Place: $2,500
MEET THE 2025 FINALISTS & WINNERS
regnault drake sanders
FINALIST
An Atlanta-based edtech company that turns academic achievement into real-world rewards. It serves 50,000+ students nationwide through a points-based, partner-powered marketplace.
robert wilson
FINALIST
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A software platform that delivers real-time parking insights without physical hardware. It helps administrators improve compliance, planning, and communication.
kimry dupree
FINALIST
A platform empowering middle-aged Black women to build wealth through ownership.
It focuses on real estate, business, and financial literacy.
India Robinson
FINALIST
A preventative education initiative helping students navigate digital spaces safely. It focuses on online risk awareness and cyberbullying prevention.
joann emale
FINALIST
A bold, award-winning Kentucky bourbon brand rooted in heritage and rebellion. Created by spirits industry veteran India for a modern audience.
cornelius anthony jr.
FINALIST
The only Black-owned champagne importer in the U.S., specializing in boutique,sustainable French champagnes. Founded by Cornelius Anthony Jr.
Serene Champagne Selections
Krystle hodge
FINALIST
A preventative education initiative helping students navigate digital spaces safely. It focuses on online risk awareness and cyberbullying prevention.
dr. deonte williams
FINALIST
An equity-driven organization supporting underserved students and families nationwide. It removes barriers through holistic academic and personal development.