Launching the next generation of teen founders

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Deadline extended

Applications now close on

March 22nd

@ 11:59 P.M PST

A classroom or conference room with a presentation slide on a large screen that reads 'target audience' and lists details. Four students or presenters are standing near the screen, with one at a podium and others nearby. Four attendees are seated at desks listening. The room has large windows, an American flag near the door, ceiling lights, and a ceiling-mounted projector.

Shark Tank Meets High School

Inspired by the TV show "Shark Tank," The Next Big Thing is a business pitch competition that empowers high school students in Santa Monica or the greater Los Angeles Area to pitch innovative business ideas and compete for funding to launch their ventures.

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Community Partners

The Next Big Thing addresses three critical barriers that prevent young entrepreneurs from building real solutions; we provide the platform, the connections, and the capital to turn student ideas into impactful ventures.

Participation is completely free and open to any high school student in and around Santa Monica. This way, every aspiring entrepreneur has an equal opportunity to succeed.

Breaking
barriers

$5,000

Raised in 2026

$2,000

Raised in 2025

100%

Free Access

building skills

Public
Speaking

Students develop confidence and communication skills through live pitching and Q&A sessions

Strategic
Planning

Participants learn to refine their business models and develop comprehensive market strategies

Financial
Literacy

Students also gain practical experience with budgeting, funding, and financial planning

Two students present in front of a classroom, with several students seated and watching. The room has a large screen displaying a logo, and an American flag near the door.

Interested in competing?

Learn more about the 2026 competition