OXFORD — Applications are now open for the 2026 Oxford Pitch Competition, a regional business contest aimed at supporting entrepreneurs across North Mississippi.
The event, hosted by Oxford-Lafayette Economic Development Foundation in partnership with the University of Mississippi, will take place June 11 at the Oxford Conference Center. Organizers said the competition will run from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., with an application deadline of May 13.
The competition, powered by Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network, offers two tracks for participants: one for traditional and lifestyle businesses and another for high-growth innovation and technology startups.
Selected finalists will pitch their business ideas for cash prizes, exposure and access to entrepreneurial resources. Participants will also receive one-on-one coaching and feedback ahead of the event.
Organizers said only a limited number of applicants will be chosen to compete, but all applicants will be connected with small business development resources and invited to attend the event.
The Oxford Pitch Competition is one of several regional contests across the state and serves as a qualifying opportunity for consideration in Innovate Mississippi’s CoBuilders Accelerator, a 12-week program designed to help startups grow.
Eligibility requirements vary by track but generally require businesses to be based in North Mississippi and less than three years old.
Officials encourage entrepreneurs with business ideas to apply and take advantage of the opportunity to gain funding and support.
For more information, applicants can contact event organizers through the Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation.
