Small Business Center Network

Program Highlights

Statewide Reach – Applications are open to aspiring entrepreneurs across all 58 community college service areas in North Carolina.

Training & Mentorship – Participants complete the REAL Entrepreneurship Pitch It! program—an eight-session, online, multi-instructor-led course designed to strengthen business planning and presentation skills.

New Business Focus – Applicants may have prior business experience, but their pitch must represent a new venture that is not established prior to the conclusion of the first night of class.

Professional Pitch Experience – Finalists present their ideas during Pitch Day, tentatively scheduled to take place in person in the Triangle area, where professional video crews capture each pitch for statewide voting via social media.

Funding & Recognition – Compete for up to $25,000 in unrestricted startup funds and statewide recognition through the Small Business Center Network.

Community Impact – Participants gain statewide exposure, expert feedback, and valuable connections with peers, mentors, and partners who can help their ideas grow.

How It Works

Step 1: Apply Online
Entrepreneurs across North Carolina are invited to apply between March 1 – April 7, 2026. Applications are open to individuals with a new business concept that has not been formally established prior to the conclusion of the first night of class on May 12, 2026. Applicants must complete an online application form, provide one letter of recommendation from their local Small Business Center Director or designee, two additional letters of recommendation from local community members, a video not to exceed three minutes, and proof of at least three hours of business counseling completed prior to application through their local Small Business Center.

Step 2: Receive Your Invitation
After regional panels review submissions, two applicants from each of the state’s eight regions (16 total) will be selected. Invitations are sent April 24, 2026, and must be accepted by April 29, 2026.

Step 3: Complete the REAL Entrepreneurship Pitch It! Program
Accepted contestants participate in an eight-session, online, multi-instructor-led program from May 12 – July 7, 2026. Participants receive access to LivePlan business planning software and weekly homework assignments. To remain eligible, participants may not miss more than two classes and must participate in all required in-person activities and events.

Step 4: Submit Your Business Plan and Pitch Deck
Contestants submit final business plans and pitch decks by July 14, 2026. Only those completing all course requirements and invited by program judges are eligible to advance.

Step 5: Pitch Day – Live in the Triangle Area
Pitch Day is tentatively scheduled for August 8, 2026. Contestants present their pitches before four Business Trailblazers, who each score on a 10-factor scale. Scores range from 0–4 per factor (40 points total per judge). Independent scores are confidential. Pitches are recorded (unedited) and shared on social media for statewide viewing. Participants receive a travel stipend. Attendance in person is mandatory; no make-up day will be provided.

Step 6: Statewide Voting and Awards
Videos will be shared September 1–15, 2026, for statewide viewing and voting. Contestants earning the most likes receive additional points added to their Business Trailblazer scores. Combined totals determine winners: 1st Place $25,000; 2nd Place $20,000; 3rd Place $15,000. Each placing winner receives up to $1,000 toward membership in their local Chamber of Commerce (paid directly to the Chamber). Prize funds are payable to the business entity, not the individual. Awards Ceremony projected September 16–26, 2026 (date/location TBD).

Step 7: Continue the Journey
All participants gain lasting benefits and remain part of the statewide SBCN community. Participants must complete the Small Business Center Network Annual File Update/Impact Survey for no less than three years following participation in the program.

Eligibility Checklist

✔ Have a new business concept not formally established before May 12, 2026.
✔ Reside in North Carolina and apply through this website (March 1 – April 7, 2026).
✔ Complete three hours of business counseling with a local SBC Counselor or Director.
✔ Obtain one letter of recommendation from an SBC Director or designee.
✔ Obtain two additional letters of recommendation from local community members.
✔ Submit a video (max three minutes) introducing yourself and your business concept.
✔ Upload all required documents and proof of counseling.

Note: Incomplete applications will not be considered for review.

Eligibility Restrictions

Employees of the North Carolina Small Business Center Network (SBCN)

Immediate family members of SBCN employees- defined as anyone residing in the same household of an SBC employee

Employees of Wells Fargo and their immediate family members.

Business Trailblazers (Judges) and their immediate family members

Employees of the NC Community College Foundation and their immediate family members.