• You have a clear business idea or want to develop one in key focus areas (Individual Freedom & Free Markets, Character Virtue Development, Life Sciences, Creativity and Arts, Social Entrepreneurship)

• You are a values-driven founder committed to promoting freedom and prosperity.

• The company was established no earlier than January 1, 2022.

• You have raised no more than $10M from combined funding sources.

• Your startup is legally registered and complies with applicable laws.

• At least one founder should be living in the United States.

• If you want to register under the student rate, you should request proof of enrollment.

Founders interested in participating must pay a $650 fee. Students qualify for a discounted rate of $325 (50% off the regular fee). That fee covers:

• Enrollment in the Principled Business Startup Accelerator Program, offering comprehensive training, mentorship, and resources in preparation for the competition.

• A Full Conference Pass to FreedomFest programming from June 11–14 in Palm Springs, California, including access to networking opportunities, dynamic sessions, prize awards, “unconference presentation sessions,” and social events in the exclusive lounge space.

• The opportunity to pitch in front of an audience of 1,000 to 2,000 at FreedomFest and compete for a $25,000 cash prize.

• Access to business perks valued at $30,000, including exclusive discounts and credits.

Please note that participants are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, and meals during the event.

If your team includes more than one person, the lead participant pays the primary fee: $650 for standard attendees or $325 for students (with valid proof of enrollment). This covers their pitch participation and a Full Conference Pass. For additional team members, the cost is $450 per person for standard attendees or $225 per person for students, which includes their Full Conference Pass and the ability to support during the pitch.

Winners will be selected based on the quality of their pitch, the clarity of their business idea, alignment with pro-liberty values, and their ability to demonstrate innovation and impact. A panel of investors, industry leaders, and judges will evaluate the pitches during the competition.

The following are not included and must be covered by participants:

• Food and accommodation: Meals and lodging are the responsibility of the participants.

• Travel expenses: You must pay for your own travel to and from the event.

• Exhibit space: The program does not include an exhibit space in the FreedomFest exhibit hall. Exhibit packages may be secured through FreedomFest.

Fee reductions are not available. The cost reflects the value provided through training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. However, students who provide valid proof of enrollment qualify for a discounted rate

You will be notified via email. Ensure you provide a valid email address when submitting your application.

Pitches are screened based on alignment with competition criteria. Including a demo or video can strengthen your application and provide clarity on your product or service.

You can absolutely still attend! Simply purchase a FreedomFest pass through their registration page. To make it even better, we’ve arranged a special discount for you. Use this registration link and enter discount code PITCH450 during registration to pay just $450 for your Regular Attendee full conference pass – that’s $150 off the full price!

Yes, selected participants will receive a Full Conference Pass to FreedomFest programming from June 11–14 in Palm Springs, California. This pass includes access to networking opportunities, dynamic sessions, prize awards, “unconference presentation sessions,” and social events in the exclusive lounge space. Please note that participants are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, and meals during the event.

Finalists will be notified 4-6 weeks before the competition.

Each presentation will last 5 minutes, followed by a 2-minute Q&A with the judges.

Each company may have up to two presenters onstage during their pitch. The lead presenter must pay the full participation fee: $650 for standard attendees or $325 for students (with valid proof of enrollment). If a second presenter is part of the pitch, they must pay the additional team member fee, which is $450 for standard attendees or $225 for students. Other team members are welcome to attend and support but cannot join the onstage presentation.

Your intellectual property remains yours. Participants are encouraged to take necessary legal precautions before pitching publicly.

Yes, discussing your fundraising goals and plans is encouraged, provided it is integrated into your broader business story.

There will be one grand prize winner, with additional awards for categories like "Public Favorite" or "Best Pitch"

Refunds are not available for participation fees. Please refer to our cancellation policy for additional information.

No. Faculty members do not qualify for the student discount and must pay the full $650 participation fee.

Attendance at FreedomFest is required to participate in the pitch competition. This ensures you can fully benefit from the networking opportunities, training, and exposure.