Got a Big Idea? Take the Stage at the 16th Annual Pirates Pitch Startup Contest

Do you have a business idea you can’t stop thinking about? Ever watch Shark Tank and imagine yourself confidently pitching your venture to a panel of investors? Now is your moment.

The Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Seton Hall University’s Stillman School of Business is excited to announce the 16th Annual Pirates Pitch Startup Competition, and we are looking for the next wave of bold, creative and driven student entrepreneurs.

Pirates Pitch is more than a competition — it is a launchpad for innovation. Open to all Seton Hall undergraduate and graduate students, the competition provides teams comprised of one to six students with the opportunity to transform their ideas into real, viable businesses while competing for $16,000 in seed funding.

Whether you are sketching out your very first startup idea or already running a venture and looking to scale, Pirates Pitch provides the structure, mentorship and stage to take your concept to the next level.

Throughout the spring semester, participating teams will engage in hands-on workshops, networking opportunities and mentoring sessions designed to sharpen business strategies, strengthen financial planning and refine pitch delivery. Six finalist teams will ultimately advance to the championship round.

The final competition will take place from 6:30-9 p.m., Wednesday, April 8, 2026, in the University Center Theater and will also be livestreamed. In front of a live audience and a panel of accomplished alumni entrepreneurs and venture capitalists, finalists will deliver high-energy pitches showcasing their innovation, preparation and entrepreneurial vision.

Prizes will be awarded as follows:

• First Place: $8,000
• Second Place: $4,500
•  Third Place: $3,000
• Audience Choice Award: $500

Beyond the prize money, finalists will also participate in the LaunchPad Summer Accelerator program, gaining additional mentorship and support as they continue building and refining their ventures after the competition ends.

Pirates Pitch has become a signature event at Seton Hall — a night where creativity meets opportunity and student ideas take center stage. For many participants, it marks the beginning of a real entrepreneurial journey.

If you are ready to challenge yourself, build something meaningful and step into the spotlight, don’t miss your chance.

Register by March 10, 2026 and take the first step toward becoming Seton Hall’s next standout entrepreneur.

Categories: Business