GNEC Main Street Pitch-Off

The GNEC Main Street Pitch-Off is a one-of-a-kind competition created to help entrepreneurs like you elevate your business pitch and take your venture to the next level. If you’ve been in business for 1 to 5 years and are looking for expert guidance, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

What’s in it for you?
By participating in this competition, you’ll have an opportunity to strengthen your pitch, receive coaching from experienced professionals, and gain access to GNEC’s network of business support services that can help you grow your business well beyond the event.

Disclaimer:

Entrepreneurs who have previously participated in a GNEC pitch competition and won a cash prize are not eligible to apply at this time. Additionally, if you have competed in a GNEC pitch competition more than twice—regardless of whether you placed—you are also not eligible.

Requirements

This competition is exclusively for entrepreneurs who have launched their business and have been in business for 1-5 years. To qualify for the GNEC Pitch-Off, your business must have generated at least $200,000 or less in revenue over the past 12 months in operation.
The application is due May 11, and you must be ready to pitch in
person on Saturday, June 13 at 9 AM.
Only 15 businesses will be selected for participation, and a waitlist
will be maintained for those who express interest beyond the initial capacity.
Additionally, participants must commit to attending at least two
virtual coaching sessions.

If you have any question please email Al Alvarez, Program Director.

Apply Here

Prizes

In the spirit of competition, while the primary focus
of this pitch-off is to help you refine your business pitch.
We will be awarding funds to those who achieve the
highest scores.

The breakdown of prizes is as follows:

1st Prize: $10,000

2nd Prize: $5,000

3rd Prize: $2,000

Spring 2026

9 AM- 1 PM

Newark, NJ