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TiE U Pitch Competition

Fueling Student Innovation into Opportunity.
Empowering the Next Generation Through a Global Pitch Platform.

University pitch competition

Pitch. Compete. Launch.

The TiE University (TiE U) Program is designed to help college startups and founders transform their ideas into viable, sustainable businesses.

TiE New York’s involvement in TiE U aligns with our mission to invest in and empower today’s innovators—tomorrow’s disruptors—right here in New York. Through mentoring, funding opportunities, and our global TiE network, we connect university entrepreneurs to resources that fuel their growth both locally and internationally.

We invite current university startup teams from New York and the Tri-State area to apply and compete in the TiE U Global Pitch Competition for cash prizes to advance their ventures. Founders gain premier access to investors, venture capitalists, seasoned mentors, and a vibrant community of like-minded entrepreneurs.

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Eligibility & Key Dates For University Pitch Competition

Ready to take your startup from campus to the global stage? Check the eligibility and key dates for the TiE University Pitch Competition and join the journey

Apply Here
Who Can Apply
  • Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students with a validated startup idea
  • All team members must be current students of a college/university or graduated in the past two academic years
  • The applicant must be the founder or co-founder of the startup
  • Teams should consist of minimum 2 to 5 members unless given prior approval.
  • Teams should be able to pitch in-person if selected for the final round.
    • The Calendar
    April 30 2026 - Applications Open

    June 30, 2026 - Applications Closes at 11:59 PM EST

    Jun-Aug 2026 - Chapter-level mentoring

    Sept 2026 - Chapter Selection Rounds

    Oct-2026 - TiE New York Chapter Finals

    Oct-Nov 2026 - Mentoring of winning teams | Mock Round and Global Semi Finals

    Dec 2026 - TiE U Global Pitch Competition at TiE Global Summit (TBD)
    How it works
    Important Points to Consider before Applying:

    Here are some instructions for the applicants before they apply for TiE U 2026. These guidelines will help ensure that applicants understand the process, prepare adequately, and submit a strong application:

    1. Application and Evaluation Process:
    • Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements before applying.
    • Applications will be evaluated based on the eligibility criteria, the strength of the startup idea, the progress of the prototype, customer validation, and the potential for impact and scalability.
    • TiE New York may consider additional factors during the evaluation process, which may not be explicitly stated in the eligibility criteria.

      • 2. Prepare a Clear and Concise Pitch:
    • Clearly articulate your startup idea, the problem you are solving, and your target audience.
    • Highlight your prototype’s features and how it stands out from existing solutions.
    • Explain your customer validation process and what you’ve learned from it.
    • Revenue details
      • Gather Required Documents and Information
    • Team details (names, roles, contact information, Name of your University, Linkedin Profile).
    • A brief description of your startup (problem, solution, target market).
    • Details about your prototype/full product as per the track you are applying for (functionality, development stage).
    • Evidence of customer validation (e.g., survey results, user feedback).
    • Revenue details
      • Submit a Complete Application
    • Fill out all sections of the application form accurately and thoroughly.
    • Double-check for errors or missing information before submitting.
    • Ensure your application is submitted before the deadline. Late submissions will not be considered.

      • 3. Prepare for the Next Steps
    • If shortlisted, be ready to participate in interviews, presentations, or pitching sessions.
    • Have a clear plan for how you will use the resources and mentorship provided by TiE U to grow your startup.

      • 4. Reach Out for Clarifications
    • If you have any questions about the application process or eligibility, contact the TiE U team for assistance.
    • Do not hesitate to seek guidance to ensure your application is strong and complete.

    Judging Criteria
  • Opportunity Assessment
  • Operational and Management Credibility
  • Success Viability
  • Business Model Canvas
  • Business Plan Summary
  • Value Proposition
  • Financials
  • Presentation Delivery Effectiveness
    • How to Apply
  • Submit your application online
  • The application must be completed by Saturday, JUNE 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST.
  • Teams invited to participate in the program will be notified via a live video event, email and phone by TiE NY team.
  • If you have questions about any aspect of the competition, please contact the TiE U team at
    [email protected]
    • GALLERY

    Pitch Competition in Action

    TiE U Pitch Competition

    Testimonials

    profile-689460d44e5ca
    “
    I completely went to the Pitch Competition on a whim, after a member of my investment circle forwarded the information to me, believing that we could find some good candidates..and I’m truly glad I did! I needed that shot of energy and passion, really reminded me of why I first became an entrepreneur. Keep up the great work, I’ll be coming to future events

    Carlota Z

    Angel Investor
    profile-689460d44e5ca
    “
    My mentor, generously took the time to review our pitch and offer his feedback. We constantly work to hone our message around Geopipe’s innovations and value propositions, and his feedback was a constructive addition to this process.

    Christopher Mitchell

    PhD, CEO and Co-Founder, Geopipe
    profile-689460d44e5ca
    “
    Becoming a member and applying for the 2018 Pitch Competition has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my startup career. I’m glad for the support of TiE New York.

    Sam Bhattacharyya

    Co-Founder & CEO Vectorly
    MEMBERS

    TiE University Committee Chairs

    MEMBERS

    TiE University Committee Co-Chairs

    Be part of New York’s thriving startup community