Timeline, Rules & Awards

• Applications open each fall  
• Application deadlines occur early in the spring semester  
• Semifinalists are selected following the application review process  
• Selected teams participate in preparation and mentorship  
• Finalists present in person at TCU during the spring semester  

Applications are evaluated based on a completed submission including a video pitch, executive summary and supporting materials. 
A completed application typically includes:

• 1-page executive summary  
• 90-second video pitch  
• Pitch deck  
• Team photo  
• Required release forms  

Selected teams participate in a structured preparation period, which may include:

• Regular check-ins and updates  
• Mentor matching  
• Participation in the Investor Challenge  
• Additional required materials and deliverables  

The competition concludes with an in-person experience at TCU, where semifinalists and finalists present their ventures to judges.

• Semifinal rounds include pitch presentations and Q&A sessions  
• Finalists advance to the final round of judging  
• The competition concludes with an awards presentation  

• Open to currently enrolled undergraduate students  
• Students graduating mid-year may be eligible  
• Graduate students may participate on teams but may not present  

• Must be for-profit and values-based  
• Must address a societal or environmental need  
• Must demonstrate potential for profitability  
• Must be majority owned by undergraduate team members

• Teams must include a minimum of 2 undergraduate members and may include up to 5
• Only one team per university will be selected for the competition
• Teams may include students from multiple universities but must represent one
• A faculty or staff sponsor is required to verify the work  

• All submissions must be original work
• Violations of competition rules may result in disqualification
• Competition events are public; confidentiality cannot be guaranteed  

Values and Ventures awards significant non-dilutive capital to undergraduate teams developing ventures that create both profit and impact.

• Grand Prize  
• Second Place  
• Third Place  
• Honorable Mentions  

Special awards are supported by long-term partners and recognize ventures that demonstrate exceptional innovation and impact. 

Additional challenges recognize broader entrepreneurial skills and engagement throughout the competition.

• Investor Challenge  
• Networking Challenge  

There is no fee to participate. Selected semifinalists receive lodging, local transportation and most meals during the competition. Teams are responsible for travel to and from TCU. 

A values-based venture creates both financial return and positive impact, such as supporting sustainability, healthcare, education, economic development or equality. 

Teams present their ventures in timed pitch sessions followed by Q&A with judges during multiple rounds of the competition.