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Princeton Business Challenge

Princeton Business Challenge

Princeton Business Challenge

ClosedBusinessEntrepreneurshipCompetition

About the Program

The Princeton Business Challenge is a free, virtual business and problem-solving competition open to students from Kindergarten through 12th grade worldwide. Competitors receive a brief describing a challenge faced by a local Princeton business, then research, brainstorm, and pitch a solution, either live to industry professionals or as a recorded pitch. Each competitor is paired with a high school upperclassman or college student mentor, and the program also offers free online business courses. The competition is not affiliated with Princeton University.

Pitches are judged on creativity, feasibility, communication, and overall impact, with bonus points for sustainability and community focus. Each age category has 1 to 3 winners: $50 for 1st place, $25 for 2nd, and $15 for 3rd. The program reports over 1,200 competitors and 100 volunteers. The most recent edition listed on the site is the 2025 Summer Challenge, and the organizers say to stay tuned for the Spring Competition.

Eligibility

Open to students worldwide from Kindergarten through 12th grade, judged within age categories (K-2, 2-6, 6-8, 9-12); compete solo or in a team of up to three; fully virtual

Eligible Countries

All countries

How to Apply

Register via princetonbusinesschallenge.com; registration for the next (Spring) competition has not opened yet. Competitors receive a brief on a local business challenge, are paired with a mentor, and pitch live or by recorded video (6-8 minutes) on a schedule fitted to each competitor. Contact princetonbusinesschallenge@gmail.com for details.