Get expert coaching. Pitch in front of leading investors and entrepreneurs. Make the connections that move your startup forward.
October 28–29, 2026
Houston, Texas
Open to startups worldwide
Free to apply
Applications close September 23, 2026
Every selected finalist receives expert coaching and preparation through Hatch Pitch before taking the stage at TiEcon Texas.
Work one-on-one with experienced coaches to refine your pitch and prepare for tough investor questions
Present your company to investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders from the TiE and Hatch Pitch networks
Tap into TiE’s global network of 15,000+ members across 64 chapters in 4 continents
Connections
Build relationships that can lead to mentorship, partnerships, customers, and funding
YEARS
coaching startups
RAISED
by participants
EXITS
including Distil, RideScout, SPLT
DEDICATED
expert coaches
Sharpen your pitch with expert coaching
Pitch in front of investors and entrepreneurs
Get honest feedback and valuable insights
Network with the TiE global and Hatch Pitch ecosystems
Grow your visibility and credibility
Open doors to future opportunities
Technology startups building or using automation across industries are encouraged to apply.
The application is free.
No. Startups from outside Texas and outside the United States are welcome to apply.
We are open to startups at various stages of growth and fundraising, from pre-seed to Series A.
We are looking for companies that have demonstrated meaningful progress and founders who are open to coaching and willing to participate fully.
Each finalist has:
3 minutes to pitch
5 minutes for Q&A
Yes. The competition will be held in person in Houston on October 28–29, 2026.
Finalists are responsible for their own travel and accommodations.
Do not include trade secrets, confidential information, or other proprietary information that you need to protect in your application.
Share enough information for the Selection Committee to understand your company, problem, solution, traction, and opportunity without disclosing information that requires IP protection.
Judges and coaches will be announced soon.
Applications will be reviewed and scored by the Hatch Pitch Selection Committee.
Don’t wait - applications close soon
