Pitch daySeptember 13, 2026
CAST-DC × CYOC present
Build the idea.Own the room.
The 2026 Washington Youth CEO Entrepreneurship Competition invites students in grades 7–12 to turn bold ideas into a pitch worth backing.
2026 华盛顿青少年创新创业挑战赛
THE DMV PITCH STAGE
SEP132026
Local selection
Grades 7–12
IDEA → IMPACT
Registration closes September 6, 2026
LocationDMV area · VA / MD / DC
EligibilityStudents in grades 7–12
Entry fee$30 per team
01 · THE CHALLENGE
A launchpad for young founders.
Bring a real problem, a clear solution, and the courage to explain why your idea should exist. Teams develop an entrepreneurial concept, shape its impact, and present it to judges from the science and business community.
No company required. Start with curiosity, teamwork, and an idea you believe in.
02 · CHOOSE YOUR LANE
Two tracks.
One national stage.
Pick the category that best fits your idea. Both tracks reward originality, practical thinking, and a convincing pitch.
A
INVENT · TEST · EXPLAIN
Science &
Technology
- AI, software & robotics
- Biomedicine & health technology
- Clean energy & sustainability
- Scientific & educational tools
- Other science & technology topics
B
DISCOVER · MODEL · PITCH
Business &
Innovation
- AI business apps & digital economy
- Consumer products & smart living
- Health, sustainability & social innovation
- Business models & platform economy
- Other business topics
03 · THE PATHWAY
From the DMV
to Nationals.
Three stages take the strongest local ideas from a community pitch to the CAST-USA National Finals.
01
September 13, 2026
DMV Local Selection
Virginia · Maryland · Washington, DC
Top two teams in each track advance directly to Regionals.
02
October 4, 2026
Eastern Regional Finals
Online competition
Qualifying teams pitch to the CAST Eastern Region judging panel.
03
October 31, 2026
CAST-USA National Finals
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Regional winners meet on the national stage to compete for top honors.
APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN
Your idea deserves
a first audience.
Gather your team, choose your track, and submit your registration by September 6.
Start your registration