Enter Seton Hall's $50k Pirates Pitch for High School Students Startup

September 10, 2026 - 22:48

High school students with a passion for business have a chance to win big money for their ideas. Seton Hall University is now accepting entries for its Pirates Pitch startup competition, which is open to high school students across the country. The contest hands out a total of $50,000 in prizes to young founders who present the most promising business concepts.

The competition welcomes two types of students. Some already run their own small companies and want to grow them. Others simply have an idea they believe could turn into something real. Both groups get the chance to pitch their plans to a panel of judges made up of professors, investors, and experienced entrepreneurs.

Students who make it past the first round will present their ideas in person. They will need to explain what problem their business solves, who their customers are, and how they plan to make money. Judges will look at creativity, feasibility, and the strength of the team behind each pitch.

Beyond the cash prizes, the event offers feedback from people who know the startup world. Past winners have used the money to build products, pay for equipment, and cover early operating costs. The deadline to enter is coming up, so students who want a shot at the prize should start preparing their materials soon.