Got an idea for a small business? Are you interested in becoming an entrepreneur? Do you have a side hustle that you are ready to grow? ? Rio Salado College, in partnership with the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE), could help you launch your business with our Small Business Pitch event! The pitch competition will award eligible student entrepreneurs with reimbursable grant funds to help them take their small business ideas to the next level. Submit a video pitch for your start-up business or idea and compete to win grant-funded awards of up to $2,000 for 1st Place! Awards for 2nd Place: $1,250; 3rd Place: $750; 4th Place: $250.
The Small Business Pitch @ Rio is open to all students (any major) currently enrolled in at least 3 credit hours. Applications and videos are due by Oct. 19, 2026. If you have any questions, reach out to [email protected].
Submission Requirements
Applicants will need to submit an application, Simple Business Plan, W-9, and a 5-minute pitch video. Before you begin your submission, make sure you have the following on hand:
- Signed W-9
- Simple Business Plan
- 5-minute Pitch Video in MP4 format
What Can I Use The Grant For?
The Small Business Pitch awards can be used to cover business expenses that include, but are not limited to:
- Legal fees for registering the name and protecting trademarks
- Setting up a website
- Website maintenance costs
- Boosting online search and/or social media visibility
- Marketing campaigns
- Purchasing necessary equipment, inventory, and supplies
All expenses are subject to approval.
Article by Austin Brietta