Brooklyn Public Library PowerUP Business Plan Competition

Up to $20,000 (prizes also at $10,000 and $5,000); awarded annually

Runs annually; the last cycle closed May 4, 2026. Check bklynlibrary.org for the next round.

AMOUNT

Up to $20,000 (prizes also at $10,000 and $5,000); awarded annually

AMOUNT

Up to $20,000 (prizes also at $10,000 and $5,000); awarded annually

DEADLINE

Runs annually; the last cycle closed May 4, 2026. Check bklynlibrary.org for the next round.

DEADLINE

Runs annually; the last cycle closed May 4, 2026. Check bklynlibrary.org for the next round.

FUNDING TYPE

Pitch Competition

CAN YOU GET THIS?

Open to aspiring business owners, likely with a Brooklyn connection given the program's focus.

This is an annual pitch competition for early-stage startups across all industries. The source describes it as a contest for 'aspiring business owners,' hosted by Brooklyn Public Library's Business & Career Center.

YOUR REAL ODDS

Multiple prize tiers ($20,000, $10,000, $5,000) suggest at least three winners per cycle.

The competition is run annually through a library system, making it more accessible than national programs, but specific applicant volume and selection rate are not disclosed in the source.

WHAT IT TAKES

Prepare a business plan — Several weeks
Submit competition application — 1–2 hours
Pitch to judges — Competition day

WORTH KNOWING

Brooklyn Public Library's Business & Career Center offers business coaching and workshops — engaging with these resources before applying could strengthen your plan and your familiarity with the program's expectations.

Apply on the funder’s site →

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$25,000–$50,000 non-dilutive, awarded per competition event.

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Athene Black & Brown Pitch Competition

Up to $12,000 for the top winner (varies by year); finalists receive $1,000. Awarded annually.

Black and Brown founders of any stage or industry can compete for up to $12,000 at this annual Iowa-based pitch competition.

Enthuse Foundation’s 8th Annual Pitch...

$15,000 cash grand prize (plus $120,000+ in-kind package); awarded once per year.

Women-founded food, beverage, or CPG startups based in the US with under $750K revenue can apply.

This is 1 of 1,600+ open opportunities.

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