GRANT · HOW TO WIN THIS
Up to $250,000 in pledged investment from participating Sharks; annual competition.
Application deadline: August 16, 2026 (midnight ET). Event: October 14–15, 2026, New York City.
FUNDING TYPE
Pitch Competition
CAN YOU GET THIS?
YOUR REAL ODDS
A small number of finalists are hand-picked from hundreds of applications each year to pitch on stage.
The competition is selective—the site notes finalists are 'hand-picked from hundreds of applications.' Sharks collectively pledge up to $250,000, but individual investment deals are not guaranteed for all participants.
WHAT IT TAKES
Submit the online application — 15–30 minutes
If selected, prepare your pitch for the live event in New York City — Ongoing until October 14–15, 2026
WORTH KNOWING
The selection criteria prioritize diverse-minded teams with passion for education first, then the size and quality of the problem being solved—lead with your mission and market before your product features.
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