The Principled Business Pitch Competition will bring together pre-seed and seed-stage founders from industries ranging from AI and energy to crypto, consumer products, and more. This competition will showcase innovative solutions to an audience of investors, executives, and industry leaders committed to advancing free markets.
Applications close February 24, 2026
Live pitch finals at the Liberty Ventures Reception on March 13, in Austin, TX
About the Program
Selected founders will join our virtual training program before the summit, designed to sharpen pitches and boost investor readiness. This includes: 1) Online workshops with expert mentors, 2) Pitch practice sessions with feedback, 3) Guidance on storytelling, fundraising, and growth strategies.
On March 13, founders will pitch live in Austin, Texas in front of a panel of investors and leaders. The winner of this competition will receive a scholarship to attend the 2026 Principled Business Summit on Necker Island, i.e. Sir Richard Branson’s private home.
Pitch Competition Benefits
Benefits for All Selected Participants
Every startup selected to pitch will receive non-cash benefits valued at over $25,000 - no matter their final placement:
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$10,000 AWS Credits
Free access to Fidelity’s Launch program
20% off cap table plans
Waived 401(k) setup fees
$1,000–$5,000 American Cloud credits
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6 months free of Notion
90% off DocSend
90% discount on HubSpot for Startups
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Investor networking opportunities
Exclusive workshops & mentorship
Prize for the Winner
A scholarship to attend the 2026 Principled Business Summit on Necker Island, i.e. Sir Richard Branson’s private home.
FAQs
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Pre-seed and seed-stage startups from any industry—AI, energy, crypto, consumer products, and more—are welcome to apply. You must hold a valid ticket to the New York Summit to be considered.
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There is no cost to apply to participate. Please note that participants are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, and meals during the event.
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Yes. Multiple team members can participate, but only one will get to present on stage.
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Winners will be selected based on the quality of their pitch, the clarity of their business idea, alignment with pro-liberty values, and their ability to demonstrate innovation and impact. A panel of investors, industry leaders, and judges will evaluate the pitches during the competition.
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Fee reductions are not available. The cost reflects the value provided through training, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
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You will be notified via email. Ensure you provide a valid email address when submitting your application.
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Pitches are screened based on alignment with competition criteria. Including a demo or video can strengthen your application and provide clarity on your product or service.
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Absolutely. You can register to attend our reception during SXSW.
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Selected participants will receive email notification by February 27, 2026
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Each presentation will last 5 minutes, followed by a 2-minute Q&A with the judges.
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Each company may have up to two presenters onstage during their pitch. Other team members are welcome to attend and support but cannot join the onstage presentation.
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Your intellectual property remains yours. Participants are encouraged to take necessary legal precautions before pitching publicly.
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Yes, discussing your fundraising goals and plans is encouraged, provided it is integrated into your broader business story.
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There will be only one winner, which will receive a scholarship to attend the 2026 Principled Business Summit on Necker Island, i.e. Sir Richard Branson’s private home.
Additional recognition may be awarded for categories such as Public Favorite or Best Pitch.
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Attendance to the Reception is required to participate in the pitch competition.
If you can no longer attend, you may:Transfer your registration to the next Pitch Competition, or
Transfer your registration to another individual by emailing michelle@libertyventures.xyz with their name and contact details.