Mott Million Dollar Challenge: A Student Goal

The world of business is about to get a massive boost from the next generation. The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation is celebrating its centennial in a very big way this year. They just launched the Mott Million Dollar Challenge to find the brightest young minds. This national pitch competition offers a share of $1 million in cash prizes. It is open to all K-12 students across the United States. Mott Million Dollar Challenge aims to turn simple ideas into real-world solutions for everyone. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for kids to lead with bold ideas.

The Mott Million Dollar Challenge Journey

Every big success story starts with a very simple and clear idea. Mott Million Dollar Challenge asks students to identify a problem in their own community. They can propose a new business or a creative social solution to fix it. Students must record a 30 to 90-second video pitch to enter the first round. No fancy cameras or professional editing skills are needed for this part. The judges only care about your creativity and how well you explain your plan. You must appear on screen to share your unique vision with the world.

Over 1,000 prizes will be awarded to the best video submissions in the country. After that, the judges will select the top 60 finalists for a big event. These finalists will travel to Flint, Michigan, in June 2026 for a live pitch. They will receive expert coaching to help make their business plans even stronger. Mott Million Dollar Challenge is all about giving kids the confidence to lead. It proves that you are never too young to be a powerful innovator. The foundation wants to equip the next generation with essential 21st-century skills.

Winning with the Mott Million Dollar Challenge

Partnerships are the key to making this massive competition a huge success. Mott Million Dollar Challenge is powered by the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE). Other great partners include VentureLab, Young Entrepreneur Institute, and the Afterschool Alliance. These groups work together to support student entrepreneurs at every single step. They provide free resources and lessons to help you prepare your winning pitch. You can work alone or in a team of up to three friends. There are three grade-level groups: K-4, 5-8, and 9-12.

The deadline to submit your bold ideas is February 27, 2026. This is a life-changing chance to win real cash and grow your skills. Mott Million Dollar Challenge helps students build resilience and agency for their future. You can find all the rules and entry forms on the official website today. Do not wait until the last minute to record your video pitch. Start brainstorming your best ideas and show the world what you can do. Your vision could be the next big thing in the business world.

TSE is excited to see how young leaders will use this chance to shine. We believe that entrepreneurship is the best way to drive real change. The Mott Million Dollar Challenge is the perfect stage for your creative spirit to soar. Good luck to all the students who are ready to go bold and win big. Your journey to becoming a CEO starts right now with this amazing contest. The next big solution is just one video pitch away.