Applications are now open for Northern California’s premier startup pitch competition.

Calling all NorCal entrepreneurs! Applications are now open for Pitch Elk Grove 2025—the premier pitch competition that puts promising startups in the spotlight and offers $20,000 in prize money. If you’re building something innovative with technology at the core — whether in software, biotech, agtech, cleantech, or beyond — this is your moment.

Presented by Invest Elk Grove in collaboration with StartupSac and Explore Elk Grove, this high-impact event champions top startups and highlights the Sacramento area as a thriving startup hub.

Apply now—deadline is Monday, June 23 at 5 PM.

Apply on F6S!

About the Competition

Now in its fourth year, Pitch Elk Grove is a startup competion created and funded by Invest Elk Grove, the City of Elk Grove’s economic development program. The event showcases the region’s most innovative startups, with up to eight finalists pitching live to a panel of judges, investors, and a supportive audience for a chance at funding and increased visibility.

Final Event: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Location: The Center at District56, Elk Grove
Total Prize Pool: $20,000

Prizes:
First Place: $10,000
Second Place: $5,000
Third Place: $2,500
Best Elk Grove Startup: $2,500

Application Details

Applications opened on May 12 and will close on Monday, June 23 at 5:00 PM PDT. All applications must be submitted via the F6S platform.

Up to 16 semi-finalists will be selected on July 11 and invited to a private semi-finals virtual pitch-off on July 31. From that group, up to eight finalists will be chosen and announced on August 1 to pitch live at the event in Elk Grove on September 4.

Who Should Apply

We’re looking for founders with traction and a tech-focused venture. Ideal applicants will:

  • Be developing a company with technology at the core of the business
  • Have a working prototype or MVP
  • Be generating revenue or getting close
  • Operate in El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Sutter, Yolo, or Yuba County
  • Structure their venture as a for-profit business (no nonprofits)
  • Be available to attend the in-person event on September 4
  • Include a website and pitch deck with their application
  • Grant permission for image use by the City of Elk Grove and StartupSac,

Note: Companies that won first place in Pitch Elk Grove in 2022, 2023, or 2024 are not eligible to compete this year but are welcome to attend.

Why Apply

Funding – Win a share of $20,000 to help move your business forward
Expert Feedback – Receive insights from experienced judges and mentors
Visibility – Gain exposure in front of a live audience and regional stakeholders
Connections – Build your network with investors, founders, and community leaders

Ready to pitch?

Submit your application by June 23 at 5 PM.

Apply on F6S!

Want to see who won last year? Check out the 2024 winners.