• Participants must fall within one of the following age divisions at the time of the event:

  • Youth Division: Ages 10–13

  • Teen Division: Ages 14–18

  Participants may enter individually or as a team. Teams may include up to four participants. If a team includes participants from different divisions, the team will automatically compete within the older age group.

  Lewis & Jones Co. reserves the right to:

  • remove inappropriate or offensive content

  • deny participation that does not align with the goals or standards of the event

  • adjust schedules, timing, or presentation structure if necessary

  Participants are expected to demonstrate respectful behavior toward judges, volunteers, attendees, and fellow competitors at all times.

  No prior business experience is required. Participants may present:

  • a business idea

  • product

  • service

  • invention

  • community solution

  • social impact concept

  • or entrepreneurial initiative

  All ideas presented should be original or appropriately credited if inspired by existing concepts.

  Submission of an application does not guarantee participation in the competition.

Each participant or team will deliver a live pitch presentation to the judging panel during the event.

• Presentations should clearly explain:

  • the idea or concept

  • the problem being addressed

  • how the idea works

  • the intended audience or community impact

  • and why the idea matters

  Participants are encouraged to be creative and confident while presenting.

  Presentation aids such as:

  • poster boards

  • presentation slides

  • prototypes

  • product samples

  • or visual displays

  may be used, but are not required.

  All presentations must remain age-appropriate, respectful, and suitable for a public community event environment.

Judging Criteria

Presentations will be evaluated based on a combination of creativity, communication, preparation, and overall impact. Judges will evaluate participants fairly based on age division and presentation quality.

Creativity & Originality

How unique, innovative, or thoughtful is the idea? Judges will consider how creatively participants approach their concept and how well the idea stands out.

Clarity of Presentation

Was the concept communicated clearly and effectively? Participants should be able to explain their idea in a way that is organized, understandable, and engaging.

Problem Solving & Impact

Does the idea solve a problem or provide meaningful value? Judges will consider the purpose of the idea and the potential impact it could have on individuals, businesses, or the community.

Preparation & Confidence

Did the participant appear prepared, engaged, and confident while presenting? Judges will evaluate effort, professionalism, and overall presentation delivery.

Feasibility & Practical Thinking

Does the idea demonstrate realistic thinking or future potential? Judges will consider whether the concept shows practical planning, thoughtful development, or long-term possibilities.

Each presentation will be limited to a designated time period. Final presentation times and competition schedules will be shared with approved participants prior to the event.

Participants should:

• arrive prepared and on time

• practice their presentation beforehand

• speak clearly and confidently

• remain respectful toward judges and fellow participants

Participants may be asked follow-up questions by the judging panel after completing their presentation.

The goal of the competition is to encourage learning, creativity, and confidence in a supportive environment.

One winner will be selected from each age division. Cash prizes are awarded per winning individual or team entry, not per participant. Team members are responsible for determining how prize funds will be shared among themselves.

• Winning participants will receive:

  • a cash prize

  • recognition during the event

  • and acknowledgement as a Future Founders Pitch Competition winner

  Prize amounts and additional recognition opportunities may vary based on sponsorship support and event participation.

  All participants will receive recognition for their participation and contribution to the event experience.

A parent or legal guardian must approve participation for all minors entering the competition.

By participating, parents/guardians acknowledge that:

• the event may be photographed or recorded for promotional purposes

• participant names and presentation photos/videos may be shared in connection with Business & Community Connect event coverage

• participation does not guarantee prizes, business funding, or investment opportunities

Participation in the competition constitutes consent for the use of event-related photos and recordings unless otherwise communicated in writing prior to the event.

Additional participation details and event logistics will be shared with approved participants prior to the event.

Lewis & Jones Co. reserves the right to:

• remove inappropriate or offensive content

• deny participation that does not align with the goals or standards of the event

• adjust schedules, timing, or presentation structure if necessary

Participants are expected to demonstrate respectful behavior toward judges, volunteers, attendees, and fellow competitors at all times.

The Future Founders Pitch Competition is intended to create a positive, encouraging, and educational experience for all participants.

No purchase or fee is required to participate in the Future Founders Pitch Competition.

Participation does not guarantee prizes, business funding, mentorship opportunities, or investment support.

Lewis & Jones Co. reserves the right to adjust competition timing, presentation order, judging format, or event scheduling if necessary.