The Speak Out!

2024

Do you have an idea for a business that needs start up funding?

The Speak Out! is Detroit Speaks' inaugural youth business pitch competition geared towards supporting Detroit youth that have a strong interest in entrepreneurship and business.

• 1st Place Prize: $1,000

• 2nd Place Prize: $750

• 3rd Place Prize: $500

Who's Eligible to Participate?

9th-12th grade students from schools in Wayne and/or Oakland county are eligible to apply as an individual or with a group. No more than four (4) youth per group.

Application Process:

• Submit a 90 Second Video about your business idea.

• The top 6 finalists will be notified.

• The finalists will receive coaching and business pitch training. The dates and times of the trainings are flexible with your schedule.

• The top 6 finalists will have the opportunity to pitch their business idea live to a panel of judges. Finalists will be scored on originality, the nature of the problem, and the viability of their solution.