The competition, entering its 22nd year, gives collegiate entrepreneurs real-world experience to pitch their startups, enhance their business strategy and learn what it takes to launch a successful company. Hosted and organized by the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship—which is Rice University's internationally-recognized initiative devoted to the support of entrepreneurship—and Rice Business.

Over 20 years it has grown from nine teams competing for $10,000 in prize money in 2001, to 54 teams from around the world competing for more than $1.6 million in cash and prizes. For the first time in competition history, the 2021 event showcased 54 student-led startups. 

Learn more about the competition.

Competition is open to judges, sponsors and members. If you would like to attend, please visit our membership page.