Startup St. Bernard, the Gulf South's largest "shark tank" style pitch competition, is back on this fall for the 12th time! Think you're up for the challenge? Now's the time to put your best foot forward and see if you have what it takes to bring home a game-changing prize package for your business. 

Startup St. Bernard seeks out dedicated, enthusiastic entrepreneurs who want to grow their business to the next level. Entrepreneurs are invited to apply for the opportunity to pitch their business to a panel of judges. The entry period closes at 12:00 PM noon CST on July 10, 2026.

Three finalists will be selected to "pitch" their business to a panel of judges on Thursday, August 20, 2025 at Nunez Community College. Last year's prize package was $100,870, with $59,500 in cash and $41,370 in-kind. All three finalists will receive a cash prize of at least $5,000. In the past, in-kind donations have included services ranging from legal and accounting to marketing and public relations.