PITCH BLACK 2027
Thursday, August 5, 2027 · 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Chicago’s young founders take the stage to pitch the businesses they’ve built, live, in front of judges, mentors, and supporters. On the line: up to $7,500 in seed funding, plus over $10,000 in additional resources.
Pitch Black Student Pitch Competition
Pitch Black is Gray Matter’s signature pitch competition. Students from ACCELERATE and our partner programs apply to compete, in person or virtually, with a full week of pitch prep and mentor support leading up to the night.
The strongest businesses win seed funding, and every competitor leaves with new connections, a sharper pitch, and a place in the Gray Matter alumni network.
WHAT COMPETITORS GET
A full pitch prep week with mentor support
A chance to win up to $7,500 in seed funding, plus over $10,000 in additional resources
Networking connections on competition night
Access to TGME’s alumni network
WHAT COMES NEXT
Pitch Black is the on-ramp to Hustle Hacks, our fellowship for young adults ages 18–24. Pitch Black competitors get priority consideration to join Hustle Hacks, or other Gray Matter programming, right after the competition.
Take a look at our past pitch competition, which have included young innovators from industries ranging from non-profits to beauty, technology, and apparel. We are excited about what the future holds for our on-the-rise entrepreneurs.
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