Workshops
Workshops & key dates
Two workshops on writing and delivering your pitch, and every date between now and the stage
From an idea to a stage to a company
Apply by November 30, 2026, to participate in the GR DeepTech Pitch Competition.
Two Pitch Academy workshops, Thursday, November 12 at Downtown (DCIH 522) and Thursday, November 19 at the Allendale campus (MAK - C - 204), 3:30–4:30 pm, on how to write and deliver your pitch. Invitations go to everyone who expresses interest, with feedback on your submission. You leave with a clear story.
Five finalists, five minutes each plus questions, on stage at Innovation Day, December 8.
Winners get GVSU student build teams, faculty expertise, mentors, a coworking membership, and guidance into SBIR/STTR federal funding.
Come learn how to pitch. Express interest and you're invited.
Pitch Academy · Workshop 1
Downtown (DCIH 522) · 3:30–4:30 pm
How to find the real problem, how to say what your technology does, and how to hold a room for five minutes.
Pitch Academy · Workshop 2
Allendale campus (MAK - C - 204) · 3:30–4:30 pm
Sharpen your pitch with feedback on your submission, with West Michigan founders and mentors in the room.
Invitations will be sent to everyone who expresses interest. Room to be announced by email.
Dates to put on the calendar
- Nov 6: Full application opens
- Nov 12: Pitch Academy workshop 1 · Downtown (DCIH 522) · 3:30–4:30 pm
- Nov 19: Pitch Academy workshop 2 · Allendale campus (MAK - C - 204) · 3:30–4:30 pm
- Nov 30: Pitch deck due, Sunday 11:59 pm ET
- After Nov 30: Five finalists announced; final deck due five days later
- Dec 8: GR DeepTech Pitch Competition at Innovation Day
Tell a clear story that connects your technology to real-world impact
What have you made that did not exist before? Be concrete about the thing itself, not the category it sits in.
What is genuinely hard about this, and why is your solution unique?
Who needs this, how many of them are there, and what changes for them when they have it?
Why are you the people to do this? Skills, research background, and obsession all count.
Questions people actually ask
No. You do not need an LLC, a bank account, or any legal entity to apply or to compete.
No. An idea with a clear technical thesis is enough.
No. Ideas, prototypes, products, and companies all belong here.
Yes. Individuals and teams are equally welcome.
That is exactly what the Pitch Academy workshops are for.
You do. Entering the competition does not transfer any ownership of your idea or your work.
Five minutes plus Q&A.
Apply by November 30, 2026