Innovate. Pitch. Impact.

Join the CASTGNY Startup Pitch Competition on October 4, 2026, in the heart of Manhattan! This event brings together aspiring founders, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry professionals for a morning of pitching, feedback, networking, and practical insights into building and growing a startup.

This is an opportunity to showcase your idea, learn from experienced professionals, and connect with the Greater New York innovation community.

🏆 Cash Prizes

Competing teams will have the opportunity to win:

  • 🥇 1st Place — $1,000

  • 🥈 2nd Place — $500

  • 🥉 3rd Place — $200

📅 Tentative Agenda

9:30–10:00 AM | Pitching Workshop
Learn how to structure and deliver a clear, compelling startup pitch.

10:00–11:00 AM | Pitch Demo
Selected teams present their startups and demonstrate their ideas.

11:00 AM–12:30 PM | Panel Discussion
Hear from experts on topics including legal considerations, go-to-market strategy, fundraising, entrepreneurship, and more.

(Agenda is subject to change.)

Requirements

Submit your project description and materials for pre-screening. Selected teams will have around 5 minutes each to pitch their ideas.

Hackathon Sponsors

Prizes

$1,700 in prizes
1st Place
$1,000 in cash
1 winner

2nd Place
$500 in cash
1 winner

3rd Place
$200 in cash
1 winner

Devpost Achievements

Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:

Judges

TBD

TBD

Judging Criteria

  • the significance of the problem
  • innovation and differentiation of the solution
  • feasibility and execution potential
  • market or societal impact
  • the clarity and effectiveness of the pitch

Questions? Email the hackathon manager

Invite others to compete

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