Learn about the 2026 competition
2025 The Next Big Thing 1st Place Winners
How it works
01. APPLICATION
Submit a 3-4min video detailing your innovative business concept and solution.
02. Selection
Our team selects top initiatives to advance to the in-person final competition.
03. PITCH Day
Present a 5-7 minute pitch to a panel of experienced entrepreneurs and local founders, and answer questions from the panel.
04. Award
Winners receive seed funding on the spot to bring their business idea to life.
2026 Competition Timeline
January 15th
Competition submissions open
mARCH 22nd
Video submission applications close
April 1st
Participants are notified of their advancement to the final competition
April 18th
Final event day, hosted at TRC Santa Monica
General
info & rules
1. Team Composition:
1-5 students per team
2. Eligibility:
Open to all grades (9-12th)
3. Competition Format:
Two-round elimination (preliminaries and finals)
4. Judging Panel:
Business professionals, successful entrepreneurs, and local founders
5. Prize Money:
Winners are encouraged to use their grant towards their business initiative, and must provide a follow up within 60 days of how the grant is being spent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and apply.
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Yes! Students with existing businesses are encouraged to apply.
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Of course. Students can team up with students from any high school as long as all team members are able to attend the final event if selected. Choose wisely.
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The 2026 final event will be located at TRC Companies in Santa Monica. 2601 Ocean Park Blvd.
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The last day to submit is March 22nd by 11:59p.m. PST.
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Upload an unlisted YouTube video by selecting Create > Upload videos in YouTube Studio, choosing your file, and setting Visibility to Unlisted in the final step. Then, copy and paste the link into the text box of your application form.