Owners of independent (non-franchised) U.S. small businesses aged 18+ can enter a yearly pitch contest. The grand prize is $25,000 plus an Inc. magazine feature, with $35,000 in total prizes. 2026 entries closed February 22, 2026.
The UPS Store Small Biz Challenge, run with Inc. magazine, is a yearly pitch competition with $35,000 in prizes. The grand-prize winner receives $25,000 and a feature in Inc. magazine. Semifinalists get expert mentorship and finalists pitch live. Owners of independent U.S. small businesses enter with a short online form during the winter call for entries, which closed February 22, 2026.
U.S. resident aged 18 or older
Owns and operates an independent (non-franchised) small business in the U.S.
Open to all 50 states and the District of Columbia
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Money can be used for
Open opportunities funding similar work, from the same funder or in the same place.
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