UVM's premier competition for high schoolers returns to empower young entrepreneurs
Vermont Business Magazine The University of Vermont has opened submissions for the 2025 Vermont Pitch Challenge, an extraordinary opportunity for high school entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and drive impactful change. This prestigious competition, inspired by the renowned ‘Shark Tank’ format, offers talented young visionaries the chance to win a full-tuition scholarship to UVM and receive crucial support for their groundbreaking ventures.
Building on the success of its inaugural year, the Vermont Pitch Challenge submissions will be accepted through Feb 15, 2025.
High school students in grades 10 – 12 worldwide are invited to submit their business proposals online at no cost, focusing on ideas that make a positive impact on the world. Last year’s competition saw nearly 200 applicants from seven countries and 27 states, with finalists representing diverse regions such as New York, Florida, Vermont, Pennsylvania and St. Croix.
The inaugural winner, Pippa Scott from Killington, Vermont, impressed judges with her initiative, Ride for Mental Health, and this year, UVM is eager to discover and support the next generation of innovators.
“My experience with the Vermont Pitch Challenge impacted me greatly,” 2024 Vermont Pitch Challenge finalist Danny Philip said. “It helped me to not only grow in knowledge of business but develop relationships with others and set myself up financially.”
Important Dates:
- Application Period: Oct 15, 2024 – Feb 15, 2025
- Final Pitch Event: Apr 10, 2025
Why Apply?
- Make your college application stand out
- Build the skills today’s employers are looking for
- Receive valuable feedback on your business idea
- Learn from entrepreneurial experts about how to build your business
- Challenge yourself to make a lasting impact in your community and beyond
“Last year, nearly 200 participants from across the world showcased the extraordinary potential of young entrepreneurs to drive meaningful change,” Jay Jacobs, UVM Vice Provost for Enrollment Management said. “We are eager to discover new visionary ideas and continue building a vibrant community of young innovators who are passionate about creating a better world.”
This is a chance for young entrepreneurs to make a mark on the world. UVM's free submission process is the first step towards turning innovative ideas into impactful solutions.
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Teen Entrepreneur Wins Full-Tuition Scholarship to the University of Vermont in Debut Vermont Pitch Challenge
Pippa Scott, a high school junior from Killington, Vermont, won the grand prize at the University of Vermont’s inaugural Vermont Pitch Challenge, the nation’s only university pitch competition that offers outstanding high school entrepreneurs worldwide a chance to secure a full-tuition scholarship for their innovative ventures.
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