Why Apply?

Build a Better Startup.

The John Shen Duke Startup Showcase is more than a pitch competition, it's one of the fastest ways to accelerate your venture.

You'll get candid feedback from founders, investors, and operators, sharpen your pitch, expand your network, and compete for more than $110,000 in non-dilutive funding.

Whether you're validating an idea or preparing to scale, you'll leave with a stronger business than when you started.

What You'll Walk Away With

  • Expert Feedback from experienced founders, investors, and operators.
  • Meaningful Connections with mentors, alumni, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs.
  • A Stronger Pitch through multiple rounds of practice and coaching.
  • Campus-Wide Visibility among Duke's entrepreneurial community and startup ecosystem.
  • Funding Opportunities with $110K+ in prizes - Duke I&E takes no equity.
  • Momentum Beyond the Competition.

Even teams that don't win funding walk away with valuable relationships, clearer strategy, and a stronger venture.

Who Should Apply? 

Apply if:

  • You have a startup, venture, or promising idea.
  • At least one founder is a current Duke student.
  • You're excited to learn, iterate, and pitch.
  • You can participate in-person from January through April.

We welcome ventures from every industry and at every stage—from first-time founders to teams already building traction.

Why Students Keep Coming Back

Every year:

  • 100+ teams apply.
  • 50 teams advance to live pitches.
  • 36 ventures are featured at the Showcase.
  • Finalists pitch live in front of founders, investors, alumni, and the Duke community.

The Showcase isn't just about winning prizes, it's about building the relationships, confidence, and momentum that help startups succeed long after the event.

Competition Timeline

  • January: Applications open.
  • February–March: Live pitch rounds with feedback from judges.
  • April: Top teams compete at the Duke Startup Showcase.

Each stage is designed to help you refine your business—not just advance in the competition.

Apply if you're ready to take your startup further.

You don't need a perfect company. You need a real problem worth solving, the willingness to learn, and the ambition to build something meaningful.