Deadline: July 25, 2025
Are you a college student in the United States with a powerful business idea? Here’s your chance to shine! The Defeat the Odds Pitch Competition 2025, powered by Fetch (America’s Rewards App), is officially open for applications. This is more than just a pitch contest—it’s a launchpad for bold, student-led innovation.
Fetch is looking for smart, scrappy, and fearless student entrepreneurs who are ready to make a difference. Whether you’re working solo or as part of a team, this opportunity could change everything for your venture.
About the Defeat the Odds Pitch Competition 2025
The Defeat the Odds Pitch Competition 2025 is designed to celebrate ambitious college students who are defying the odds with creative, scalable business solutions. Applicants will compete for funding, expert mentorship, and national recognition.
This year’s competition welcomes students aged 18 and above, currently enrolled in accredited colleges or universities across the United States. Individuals or teams of up to four members are eligible to participate.
Key Dates to Remember
- Applications Open: July 21, 2025
- Application Deadline: Friday, July 25, 2025
- Semi-Finalist Virtual Pitch: August 22, 2025
- Live Final Pitch Event: September 18, 2025
Due to the quick turnaround, it’s essential to prepare all materials—including your pitch video—before starting the application, as the form does not support saving progress.
Prizes and Mentorship
Finalists in the Defeat the Odds Pitch Competition 2025 stand to gain more than just visibility. Here’s what’s at stake:
- 1st Place: $15,000 cash prize + 1-on-1 mentorship with Wes Schroll, CEO & Founder of Fetch
- 2nd Place: $5,000
- 3rd Place: $2,500
- All Finalists: Exclusive coaching and access to a “Meet the Founder” mentorship session
This is an incredible opportunity to refine your startup vision under the guidance of real-world business leaders.
What Judges Are Looking For
Your pitch must showcase:
- A clear problem and solution
- A feasible and scalable business model
- A concise, compelling 3-minute video pitch
- The uniqueness and relevance of your idea
Applications are judged on clarity, impact, feasibility, and presentation. Be sure to communicate your idea’s potential and why you’re the right person (or team) to bring it to life.
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Checklist:
- Confirm eligibility: Age 18+, U.S. college/university student
- Form your team (1–4 members max)
- Create a 3-minute video clearly explaining your business idea
- Prepare responses about your idea’s problem, solution, model, and relevance
- Submit your complete application before July 25, 2025
👉 Click here to apply now
📖 Read more about the programme
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the Defeat the Odds Pitch Competition 2025 is more than a chance to win funding—it’s a path to:
- Validate your idea
- Grow your business network
- Receive feedback from expert entrepreneurs
- Secure mentorship that could shape your journey
This is a real chance to take your business from the dorm room to the boardroom.
Need help refining your application, drafting your pitch, or polishing your business proposal?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
