The WORC Women’s Business Pitch Competition is a premier citywide initiative designed to celebrate, elevate, and support women entrepreneurs who are driving innovation, economic growth, and social impact. Organized by the Women’s Opportunities Resource Center (WORC) and supported by the Women’s Committee of Philadelphia250 and the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation, this competition offers women-led businesses a unique platform to grow, scale, and gain visibility as America approaches its 250th anniversary.
Focused on promoting gender and economic equity, the competition highlights visionary business owners who are creating meaningful change in their communities. Participants gain access to critical resources, hands-on mentorship, and expert coaching to refine their business strategies and storytelling capabilities. This initiative not only showcases exceptional businesses but also strengthens the regional economy by supporting enterprises with strong growth potential and compelling value propositions.
Eligibility Criteria
The WORC Women’s Business Pitch Competition welcomes applications from women-led businesses meeting the following criteria:
- Gender: Businesses must be led or co-led by women entrepreneurs.
- Geography: Open primarily to businesses operating in or connected to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
- Business Stage: Startups or established businesses with demonstrated growth potential.
- Impact: Enterprises should be committed to generating positive social or economic impact within their communities.
- Entrepreneurial Experience: Applicants should have a clear business model and value proposition, demonstrating readiness to engage in coaching, storytelling development, and pitch refinement.
This competition encourages diversity, innovation, and the empowerment of women entrepreneurs to create sustainable and scalable businesses.
Program Details
The 2026 WORC Women’s Business Pitch Competition is structured as a multi-stage program with coaching, development, and presentation opportunities:
- Application Phase: Applicants submit a detailed Round 1 application to provide insights about their business, goals, and potential eligibility.
- Semi-Finalist Selection: From the applicant pool, 20 companies will be chosen to receive personalized coachingon pitch development, business narratives, and financial strategies.
- Semi-Finalist Presentations: Selected participants will present their business pitches in March 2026, with guidance and support from WORC mentors.
- Finalist Selection: Five finalists will advance to the final competition in May 2026, presenting refined pitches to a panel of expert judges.
- Public Event & Awards: The May event is a public showcase, providing finalists with networking opportunities, media exposure, and a chance to compete for grant awards ranging from $10,000 to $25,000.
Program Timeline
- December 8, 2025: Applications open
- January 30, 2026: Application deadline
- February 20, 2026: Notification of 20 semi-finalists
- March 18, 2026: Semi-finalist presentations
- May 5, 2026: Finalist presentations and grant awards
The program combines coaching, mentoring, storytelling support, and access to key business resources, providing participants with a holistic experience to refine their business strategy, strengthen investor-ready pitches, and expand their professional networks.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the Round 1 application, providing detailed information about their business, objectives, and potential for growth. This initial application allows the competition organizers to assess eligibility and determine which businesses will move forward in the multi-stage process.
Applications should be submitted online via the official application portal. It is essential that all applications are completed before the January 30, 2026 deadline to be considered for semi-finalist selection.
The WORC Women’s Business Pitch Competition is a unique opportunity for women entrepreneurs in Philadelphia to elevate their businesses, gain visibility, access expert mentorship, and compete for substantial grant funding. By participating, women-led enterprises can strengthen their business operations, refine their storytelling, and make a meaningful impact on their communities and the regional economy.
This competition is ideal for visionary women business owners committed to advancing gender and economic equity while scaling their businesses for long-term success. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative initiative.
Apply Here
