Pitch competition

Join or support the competition.

in partnership with

  • Submit your pitch application by filling out our online form. Provide details about your business, pitch idea, and how you plan to impact our community. Make sure to include any supporting documents, such as a business plan or pitch deck

  • We'll carefully review each application. We're looking for innovative ideas that have the potential to make a difference in the New Orleans community, especially among underrepresented groups.

  • After reviewing all applications, we'll select a group of finalists who will be invited to present their pitches live at the event. Finalists will be notified via email.

  • As a finalist, you'll present your pitch in front of our judges and audience at the next Culture, Commerce, and Connections event. You'll have a set time to showcase your idea, followed by a brief Q&A session lasting 5 minutes.

  • After all pitches have been presented, our judges will deliberate and announce the winners. Prizes will be awarded based on the strength of the idea, the potential impact, and the clarity of the presentation.

  • Winners will receive funding to help bring their ideas to life. However, no matter the outcome, all participants will gain valuable feedback, exposure, and connections to help their businesses grow.

The Culture, Commerce, and Connections pitch competition is more than just an event—it catalyzes change in our business community. In New Orleans, we see incredible creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Still, there's a need for more significant support and visibility, especially among underrepresented groups such as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women-identifying individuals, and people with disabilities.

This program is not just about bridging the gap. It's about fostering a more inclusive and thriving business ecosystem. This competition empowers individual businesses and strengthens the entire community by promoting innovation, collaboration, and cultural growth.

When we uplift underrepresented voices and give them the tools to succeed, we create a more vibrant, equitable, and prosperous future for everyone.