Applications Open through Jan. 9 for 24 Students Grade 9 – 12
Nevada County’s Economic Development Office, in partnership with local business partners and River Valley Bank, is proud to announce the return of Young Entrepreneurs Pitch Week, scheduled for Feb. 2–5, 2026, with a showcase finale on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the Government Center, 950 Maidu Avenue, Nevada City.
This free, weeklong program invites students in grades 9–12 to turn their creative business ideas into reality. Participants will gain hands-on experience developing business models, crafting budgets and preparing professional pitch decks. Throughout the week, students will collaborate in teams and receive mentorship from local entrepreneurs, business owners and educators.
The event culminates in a live “Shark Tank” style showcase on Friday, Feb. 6, where student teams will present their final pitches to a panel of community judges and compete for cash prizes. The public is invited to attend the showcase finale.
“Pitch Week is about inspiring the next generation of innovators,” said Jeff Dellis, youth leadership development coordinator for Nevada County. “Students gain practical entrepreneurial skills while connecting directly with mentors and community leaders who are eager to support youth creativity.”
Grant LaCosse and Elena Miller took home first prize at Nevada County's inaugural event last year with their pitch, Smart Selection, an app that helps people invest in their health by analyzing the products they eat. "To me, the best part of Pitch Week was seeing everyone’s ideas come to life. I also enjoyed networking with people in our county who are living out the aspirations I have. It made working in business feel all the more attainable," LaCosse said.
Participation is open to all western Nevada County students in grades 9-12, with 24 available spaces. Interested students are encouraged to apply early using this form 2026 Young Entrepreneurs Pitch Week Sign Up or the online form at www.nevadacountyca.gov/pitchweek Applications must be received by Friday, Jan. 9, 11:59 p.m.
Questions? Contact Jeff Dellis, youth leadership development coordinator at jeff.dellis@nevadacountyca.gov or 530-913-4135