January 17, 2026

Innovate901

Crosstown Concourse | 1350 Concourse Ave | Memphis, TN

APPLICATION DUE NOVEMBER 30, 2025

What is it?

Who can apply: Open to all Memphis-area high school students (grades 9–12), individually or in teams of up to 3.
What to do: Submit a short online application describing your tech startup idea.
Categories: Ideas can span fields like AI, FinTech, HealthTech, EdTech, ClimateTech, Robotics, and more.
Selection: 10-20 finalist teams will be chosen to pitch live to judges.
Preparation: Finalists receive mentorship, resources, and a pitch workshop to refine their ideas.
Event day: Each team gives a 5-minute pitch followed by Q&A from the judges.
Prizes: $15,000 in total awards (First Place: $10,000; Second Place: $5,000). Plus mentorship and recognition for top teams.

Empowering Memphis high schoolers to build the tech startups of tomorrow

Apply

Submit Applications

November 30, 2025

Finalists Notified

December 11, 2025

Pitch Day

January 17, 2026

Innovate901 aims to spark entrepreneurship among high school students across Memphis by giving them the tools, mentorship, and stage to bring bold ideas to life. Focused on tech-driven fields, the competition provides students with hands-on experience in problem-solving, pitching, and business building. With significant prizes, mentorship from Ridgeline, and a credible platform in front of judges and the community, the event elevates youth voices and highlights their potential to create real-world impact.