TCNewTech Pitch Competition

The TCNewTech Pitch Competition is a fun and free public event featuring Michigan startups showcasing their innovative business ideas. Come help us cheer on the finalists as they present their ideas on stage and compete for cash prizes. A panel of expert judges will review each startup, determine the best and most innovative idea, and audience members will also vote for their favorite. Think Shark Tank for Northern Michigan!

And it’s not just about the pitch competition. Check out the Startup Expo happening in the lobby both before and after the competition. Enjoy refreshments as you meet entrepreneurs, startup service providers, innovators, students, and startup enthusiasts driving the region’s growing startup community.

Interested in taking the stage to compete for a spot on the stage? Check out the pitch application form! Pitch finalists will all receive two pitch coaching sessions, and will have access to the 20Fathoms workspace for 3 months with a Shared Space membership for up to 2 members of their team. The cash prizes awarded at the pitch competition will be:

• $5000 First Place Award
• $2000 Second Place Award
• $500 Audience Choice Award (chosen by the audience!)

20Fathoms plans to take photos and video during this event. By attending the event, you agree to being photographed and filmed which may be used for marketing purposes.

4:30 pm: Doors open. Visit the Startup Expo in the lobby to meet businesses and service providers. Cash bar.

5:00 – 6:15 pm: Pitch competition. Each presenter will be allowed 5 minutes to present their business, followed by a 5 minute Q&A with the judges.

6:15 – 7:30 pm: Award ceremony and networking. The first and second place winners will be announced, along with the audience choice award. Grab a drink, meet interesting people in our startup ecosystem, discuss ideas, and see who will walk away with the grand prize.

Afterparty: Find us at The Workshop Brewing Company right after we finish at the City Opera House! You'll get $1 off your first drink, and The Workshop will be featuring their new fresh menu!

Parking: There are several surface lots and street parking around the City Opera House. There is also the Larry C. Hardy Parking Deck two blocks to the east down Front Street.

Road construction: Please note that there will be road construction happening in the area. Find more info here and be sure to plan accordingly!

Special thanks to our First Place Award sponsor:

Special thanks to our Afterparty host:

is the home of technology and entrepreneurship in Northern Michigan. We catalyze innovation and entrepreneurship through startup incubation services, business workshops, community partnership, and a vibrant coworking space. We also remove barriers and accelerate career growth through tech career training, talent acquisition, and the advancement of regional strategic initiatives.

A program of 20Fathoms, TCNewTech is a recurring pitch competition supported by tech enthusiasts, businesses, and entrepreneurs. Founded in 2015 as a way to connect local tech professionals, TCNewTech is a critical component in Traverse City’s growing startup community. Since its founding, more than 250 companies have pitched and $45,000 in pitch prizes have been awarded.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

City Opera House, 106 E Front St, Traverse City, United States