One Nation, Thousands of Ideas
From dorm rooms to classrooms to startup labs, American college campuses have long been launchpads for world-changing ideas. America's Startup builds on that tradition, connecting student founders with mentorship, national recognition, and the opportunity to compete for $25,000 in non-dilutive funding awarded to each of the top 10 teams.
Finalists will pitch live to the America's Startup Investor Council, including leading venture capitalists, during a live pitch weekend at Draper University in California.
How to Participate
Submissions are open now through March 31, 2026. To enter, eligible students submit a written proposal and a short pitch video. The competition is open to U.S. students ages 13 and older who are enrolled as an undergraduate at an accredited college, university, or trade school.
For full details including eligibility requirements, deadlines, judging criteria, and prize information, you can review the official rules before submitting.
