Graves Business Plan Competition Fall 2026
September 1 - November 6, 2026
8 am - 1 pm
The Graves Business Plan Competition gives current UT students the opportunity to pitch their original business ideas in a 10-minute, in-person presentation for a chance at startup funding.
The competition features two categories: growth and lifestyle. The growth category focuses on startups seeking significant investment and large-scale scalability, while the lifestyle category is for local or smaller-scale ventures. Prizes are awarded to the top three teams in each category — $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second and $2,000 for third — with a total prize pool of $20,000 each semester.
Additionally, the University of Tennessee Entrepreneurs Club (UTEC) Prize, presented by the Anderson Center, is awarded, granting $1,000 to the top pitch delivered by a member of the UTEC.
Applications open on September 1 for the Graves Business Plan Competition
Eligibility
Currently enrolled, full-time UT students (graduate and undergraduate) are eligible to apply. Additional details include:
- Businesses generating more than $40,000 in revenue in a fiscal year are not eligible
- Students may apply individually or as part of a team (all team members must be full-time, currently enrolled UT students)
- Teams may select up to four members to present
- Previous winners may not compete in consecutive semesters with the same business plan; a new plan is required
Application
The Graves Business Plan Competition accepts applications in the fall only. To apply, complete and submit the online application form. Final applications must be submitted through the online form to be considered. After a review by the judging panel, selected applicants will be invited to meet with Anderson Center Startup Coaches and prepare a presentation for pitch day.
Key Dates
- Applications Open: September 1, 2026, 8 a.m.
- Applications Close: October 9, 11:59 p.m.
- Meet with a Startup Coach: October 26-November 5, 2026
- Pitch Day: November 6, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Benefactors
In 2016, anonymous donors endowed the Undergraduate Business Plan Competition in honor of Tom Graves. The following year, it was renamed the Graves Business Plan Competition.
Agenda
Tuesday, Sep. 01
8 am
Applications open at 8 a.m.
Friday, Oct. 09
Applications close at 11:59 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 26
Meet with a Startup Coach
October 26 - November 5
Friday, Nov. 06
8 am - 1 pm