Pitch Challenge

The Foundry’s Annual Pitch Challenge opens the doors to everyone for their chance to pitch their venture idea and earn funding! The Pitch Challenge is open to students and alumni of all of Fordham University’s nine schools and colleges, including those from liberal arts backgrounds. Applications close Jan 25th, 2026, so apply today!

Apply Here!

Past Winners

  • 1st Place - Meandering Sleep

    2nd Place - Valoi

    3rd Place - LOGOS Prep

    Social Impact - TheGirlSavedByGrace

    People’s Choice - LOGOS Prep

  • 1st Place - Mila Mend

    2nd Place - Spike Cover

    3rd Place - Credentialed

    4th Place - Libri di Luccioli

    Social Impact - Alliza

    Fan Favorite - Credentialed

  • 1st Place - Dinkin’ & Bangin’

    2nd Place - GoodieBag

    3rd Place - Aliza

    4th Place - Box’d

    Social Impact - I-Learn.US

    People’s Choice - Passage.AI

FAQs

Who is eligible to participate?

1

Teams must have at least one Fordham-affiliated member, either a current Fordham undergraduate and graduate student or a Fordham alumni.

Do I need to have a fully developed business to apply?

2

No, you may pitch an early-stage idea, a prototype, or an existing venture. Judges evaluate innovation, feasibility, and impact. not just maturity.

Do I need a pitch deck for the final round?

3

Yes, you will need a pitch deck for the final round of check-in sessions. We will help you develop your pitch deck during the mandatory mentorship sessions. Finalists present a pitch deck during their live pitch. The deck should clearly explain your market, product, business model, and traction. 

What are the check-in sessions?

4

There will be 3 mandatory check-in/coaching sessions. YOU MUST ATTEND ALL 3 SESSIONS TO COMPETE ON APRIL 9th! Check-ins will take place both online and in person. Each session will have up to 3 teams (plus coaches) meet during each 60-minute time slot, with a 20-minute focus for each team.

How long is the pitch?

5

The pitch is 3-5 minutes followed by a Q&A session with judges (typically 2–3 minutes).

Important Dates

6

Pitch Challenge applications close January 25th. Kickoff on Zoom on January 26th at 6 pm. Semi-finals will be held on March 31st at Rose Hill Foundry. The Finals will be held on April 9th on the Rose Hill campus. MUST BE IN PERSON FOR BOTH SEMI-FINALS AND FINALS.

Who should I contact for more information?

7

If you have more questions additional questions, contact foundry@fordham.edu.