The Magic City Classic Business Pitch Competition is an opportunity for the next generation of diverse innovators and small business founders to compete for nearly $20,000 in cash prizes through an immersive one-day pitch and entrepreneurship workshop experience. It’s completely FREE to participate, and participants don’t need a fully polished business plan or years of experience to apply. If you have an idea—whether it’s a side hustle or a fresh way to solve a problem—you can step in and compete. The application is simple, and the event is structured to guide you every step of the way.
| Applications Open: | October 1, 2025 |
| Virtual Info Session: | October 14, 2025 |
| Intent to Compete Due: | October 16, 2025 |
| Notifications of Acceptance: | October 18, 2025 |
| Pitch Booth Competition, Entrepreneurship Training Workshop, Pitch Finale and Networking Reception: | October 23, 2025 |
Participants must be affiliated with an HBCU as a student, recent graduate, faculty, or staff. The business idea should fall into one of the following categories:
Compete individually or as a team (4 team members max.)
Booths will be organized by topic and a cash award will be given to the top scorer at each booth.
No video submissions or slideshow presentations are needed, and we’re offering more opportunities to win cash prizes!
You will have 3 minutes to describe your idea to the judges – no slides, no audio-visuals needed.
$100 travel stipends given to teams traveling outside of BHM
This competition spans a full day and includes entrepreneurship training sessions, group mentoring and a Lunch and Learn.
A Pitch Finale will take place with the top scorers competing for additional cash prizes.
The judges will be listening closely to see if you’ve created a narrative that’s easy to understand, relatable and provides examples. Your pitch should be simple, clear, and to the point.
Tip: Practice so you can deliver your pitch confidently in 3 minutes. Keep it clear, energetic, and focused—judges should leave knowing exactly what your idea is and why it matters.
Click the link below for a detailed overview of the judging criteria.
Please send an email to hbcu-ie@tidalits.com if you have questions.
The Alabama Collective (TAC) is building a more inclusive, tech-driven economy across Alabama. Guided by the principles of Expose, Educate, Engage, and Empower, TAC connects talent, training, and opportunity—helping students, founders, and communities transform ideas into impact.
