Food Pitch Competition and Summit
March 21, 2026
9AM-4PM
APPLY NOW!
DEADLINE TO APPLY FEBRUARY 14, 2026
Submit your application
Think you have what it takes to pitch your food business/idea? Click below to submit your application today! Deadline to apply is February 14, 2026.
Competitors
$40k
Prize Pool
Winners
What is Food Prize?
Food Prize 2026 is a regional food business competition and industry convening designed to support new and existing food entrepreneurs across Michigan.
The event combines a pitch competition, food product showcase, and educational summit, bringing together food business owners, support organizations, funders, and industry partners.
Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Kellogg Arena & Battle Creek Innovation Hub
Program Overview:
Pitch Competition | 9:00 AM–12:00 PM – BC Innovation Hub
Two competitive tracks:
• Food Service (catering, food trucks, restaurants) — Regional
• Food Manufacturing (CPG Food & Beverage) — Statewide
Up to $40,000 in cash awards will be distributed.
Open4BizBC.com Food Business Summit | 12:00-4:00 PM – Kellogg Arena
Educational forums focused on the operational, regulatory, and financial needs of food businesses.
Make It:
• Commercial kitchen access, incubators, and accelerators
• Regulatory and compliance requirements
Fund It:
• Capital access, including loans, grants, and investment
Sell It:
• Scaling operations
• Co-packers, contract manufacturing, and retail pathways
Food Show:
Participating vendors will showcase and sell products at Kellogg Arena.
Thank You to Our Partners