GRANT · HOW TO WIN THIS
$1,000,000 grand prize, awarded annually
2026 applications are closed; next cycle not yet announced.
FUNDING TYPE
Grant, Program
CAN YOU GET THIS?
YOUR REAL ODDS
The competition is fierce and openly described as such by past winners—one grand prize of $1M is awarded annually.
The process narrows from open applications to semifinalists, then Top 50 finalists, then winners at a national Demo Day. Past winners note the field is highly competitive.
WHAT IT TAKES
Submit application during the open window — Applications open ~10 weeks
Compete as a semifinalist and complete mentorship program — July–August
Advance to Top 50 and public voting round — September
Pitch at national Demo Day for final prize decision — November
WORTH KNOWING
The 2026 prize competition is closed—Black Ambition is not accepting new applications and is focusing on founders already in its ecosystem. Subscribe to their list to be notified when the next cycle opens.
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