Creative Pitch Competition
The Melton Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation invites any University of South Alabama undergraduate student to submit a one-page business pitch for a chance to win one of three cash prizes. The Melton Center believes that the entrepreneurial mindset is for all people and encourages all students to participate in this competition, regardless of their current major. Priority will be given to business ideas that promote creativity and sustainability.
This creative pitch competition is inspired by University Common Read author Margaret Renkl. Renkl, an Alabama native,exhibits an entrepreneurial mindset through her books, columns, public speaking and community outreach.
Contest Details:
Prizes:
- First Prize: $250
- Second Prize: $150
- Third Prize: $100
Submission Deadline: January 29, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
Submission Requirements: Students will complete the Jotform application. The contest is open to all business ideas but priority will be given to business ideas that promote creativity and sustainability.
Eligibility: All USA undergraduate students regardless of major or program.
Criteria for Judgement: USA Faculty will judge the entries based on the “Margaret Renkl” matrix. Winners will be announced in mid- to late-February 2026.
Questions: For more information on this contest, please contact Dr. Jennifer Zoghby at zoghby@southalabama.edu.