Power to Pitch 2026

Power to Pitch, an initiative of the Stimulating Success Foundation, was created to do one simple but powerful thing: put entrepreneurs and small businesses in rooms where capital, opportunity, and decision-makers are present.

In its inaugural year, Power to Pitch exceeded expectations. Entrepreneurs took the stage with bold ideas, compelling stories, and real solutions. The room was filled with energy as founders, investors, funders, and business leaders came together to support emerging businesses and build meaningful connections.

It quickly became clear that Power to Pitch wasn’t just an event. It was a platform.

Now, Power to Pitch returns for Year 2 — bigger, bolder, and with even more on the line.

Power to Pitch 2026 is a public, ticketed experience open to the general public. You do not need to be pitching to attend. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, funder, business leader, or community supporter, this is your opportunity to be in the room where ideas are seen, voices are heard, and businesses gain visibility.

This year’s event will feature 12 finalists pitching live on stage in front of a dynamic audience and judging panel for a chance to win cash prizes.

Attendees will experience the excitement of watching entrepreneurs present their businesses, share their vision, and compete for funding in real time.

$10,000 — First Place
$5,000 — Second Place
$2,500 — Third Place

Audience members will also play a role in the experience through live, in-person audience voting. Seating is limited, and the event is expected to sell out.

Following the pitch competition, guests will gather for the Stimulating Success Awards Brunch, where the Power to Pitch winners will be officially revealed and awarded live.

The brunch program will also recognize six distinguished Houston business leaders whose vision, leadership, and influence are helping drive meaningful economic growth across the city. These honorees represent excellence in business achievement, community impact, and a commitment to opening doors for the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Together, the awards and winner reveal create a powerful moment of celebration — recognizing both rising entrepreneurs and established leaders who are shaping Houston’s business ecosystem.

Location: Houston City College (Auditorium) | 2811 Hayes Rd | Houston, TX 77082, USA

Be sure to learn more by visiting stimulatingsuccess.org and following us on all social platforms: @stimulatingsuccess.

Power to Pitch 2026 – Hotel Accommodations

For your convenience, we have secured a room block for Power to Pitch 2026 attendees at the Houston Marriott Westchase. The room block is available from Friday, May 29, 2026 through Sunday, May 31, 2026. Rates range from $109–$149 per night and must be booked by Friday, May 15, 2026.

This room block is available to Power to Pitch finalists and registered guests.

To reserve your room, please use the booking link below:

If you experience difficulty booking online, please contact Marriott’s Central Reservation line at 1-888-236-2427 and reference Power to Pitch 2026.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Houston City College - Alief Hayes Campus, 2811 Hayes Road, Houston, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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