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AllPitch CompetitionClosed
Innov865
865 Fest Emerging Entrepreneur Pitch Competition 2026
Amount
$15,000
Deadline
Aug 31, 2026
Odds
6 pitching spots
Effort
1-3 hours
Can you get this?
✓Knoxville startups compete in pitch competition
✓$15,000 total cash prizes available
✓Student pitch competition also available
✓Traction Award for prior Startup Day participants
Your real odds
Only six startups pitch on stage, so the selection cut is real.
The $15,000 is split across multiple awards, meaning no single winner takes the full amount, and the regional focus limits the pool to Knoxville-area founders without making it a sure thing.
What it takes
Submit a pitch application via the Innov865 website1-3 hours
Prepare and rehearse your pitch for a live audience and judge panel1-2 weeks
Attend and pitch at 865 Fest on September 29, 2026 in Knoxville, TNFull day
Worth knowing
A separate Crowd Favorite Award is decided by the live audience, so getting your local network into the room directly improves your odds of leaving with something.
What else do you qualify for?
Filter 1,700+ opportunities by identity, stage, and region.
Select all three to see your result.
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