The Fish Tank Competition will be held in the New Hall event space on the Columbia College campus in Columbia, Missouri. Approved transportation, lodging, and meals for finalists are covered by the Steven and Barbara Fishman Center for Entrepreneurship.
Fish Tank Pitch Competition
About the Fish Tank Pitch Competition
The annual Fish Tank Pitch Competition gives students real-world experience developing startup ideas and new business concepts. Participants receive coaching, pitch their ideas, and compete for financial support to advance their entrepreneurial projects. The Fish Tank Pitch Competition is hosted by the Steven and Barbara Fishman Center for Entrepreneurship.
Who Can Participate
The Fish Tank Pitch Competition is open to all currently enrolled Columbia College undergraduate and graduate students, including Residential, Evening, and Online students.
Students may participate individually or as a team, with one application submitted per idea.
Submit Your IdeaHow it Works/Steps to Compete
1
Submit Your Idea
Fill out the competition application solo or as a team (one application per idea) before the deadline (See Key Dates below). Ideas may be conceptual, in development, or in early launch phases. Ideas must address a real problem, target a growing market and be built on a for-profit model. Do not submit someone else's intellectual property. Obtain all necessary consents.
2
Selection Process
A panel of local business leaders will review all applications and select finalists whose ideas show the strongest potential. Finalists may undergo a background check.
3
One-On-One Coaching
Finalists work with coaches in March and April to build a polished business plan and a compelling pitch deck.
4
Pitch Your Ideas
Deliver a three-minute pitch to a panel of judges and a live audience on the Columbia College campus. Travel and lodging will be covered for finalists.
5
Prizes
Winners are announced after the pitches conclude and prizes are distributed within a few weeks following the event.
Key Dates
| Application deadline | March 5, 2026 |
| Finalist selection | March 2026 |
| Coaching period | March–April 2026 |
| Pitch event | April 16, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Will the Competition Take Place?
What Types of Ideas May Be Pitched?
Ideas may fall into one of the following categories: technical solutions, apps, high-growth ventures, lifestyle, wellness, retail, and hospitality.
What Happens if an Idea Is Selected?
Selected participants have until the event to prepare a three-minute pitch and slide deck. During the preparation period, a coach is assigned to support participants via email, Zoom, or phone. While rehearsal presentations are not required, the Director may review a presentation and provide feedback before the event.
How Much Time Will It Take?
The time commitment varies by participant, but developing a viable business strategy requires consistent effort. Participants are expected to meet all deadlines outlined in the key dates (see above).
Contact Information
If you have additional questions related to the application process, contact Dr. Scott Zimmerman, Director of the Fishman Center, at (573) 875-7640 or tszimmerman@ccis.edu.
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