2026 Impact Challenge

Passionate about social entrepreneurship? Have a vision for a startup that would jumpstart positive social change? Whether your company is alpha testing or simply a concept, we want to hear it!

The Impact Challenge is a premier pitch competition for undergraduate social entrepreneurs. Once selected, the top five finalists will receive pre-conference mentorship from top VCs and operating executives. Afterwards, up to three team members will have the opportunity to attend Business Today's 52nd International Conference in full, culminating in the chance to pitch their startup to a panel of prestigious judges from all areas of the innovation economy. Past competitors have gone on to join Y-Combinator cohorts, become major VC portfolio companies, and even be recognized as Forbes 30 Under 30 founders!

Application Requirements: 

• Teams may consist of up arbitrarily many members; however, only two are permitted to attend the competition. Only one member must apply for the team. 
• The Impact Challenge will take place in person in New York, NY, on Saturday, November 7, 2026. Finalists will be invited to attend the events of the International Conference from November 6 to 8, 2026 with all travel expenses and stay covered by Business Today.

• Regular Application: June 7th, 2026