Gainesville is about to light up with innovation during Global Entrepreneurship Week, as startGNV hosts its first annual pitchGNV competition on November 13–14, 2025! This exciting event brings together startup founders from across North Florida to showcase groundbreaking ideas in Ocean Tech, Biotech, AI, and SaaS.
In partnership with UF Innovate | Accelerate and San Felasco Tech City, pitchGNV is a celebration of entrepreneurship, innovation, and the thriving startup ecosystems in Gainesville and Alachua.
Why UF Students Should Attend
Whether you’re studying engineering, business, computer science, or any other field, pitchGNV is a must-attend event for students interested in innovation and entrepreneurship. Here’s why:
- Learn How to Pitch Your Own Ideas
Watch real startup founders present their ventures and see what makes a compelling pitch. This is a hands-on way to understand how to communicate your ideas clearly and confidently. - Gain Insight Into the Startup Journey
Hear how founders turned concepts into companies, navigated challenges, and secured funding. These stories offer valuable lessons for anyone considering launching a venture. - Network With Entrepreneurs and Innovators
Meet startup teams, mentors, and investors from across Florida. These connections can lead to internships, collaborations, or even co-founder opportunities. - Get Inspired to Launch Your Own Venture
Seeing peers and professionals pitch their ideas can spark your own creativity and help you envision your path in entrepreneurship. - Tickets are FREE! Register here: https://lnkd.in/edUs5YnE
It’s a win-win: enjoy the event and walk away with new knowledge and connections—all at no cost.
pitchGNV Schedule – Friday, November 14, 2025
📍 Reitz Union – Career Connections Center – Innovation Room
Join us for one or more of the sessions—learn, network, and get inspired!
8:30–9:30 AM – Coffee & Networking
9:30–10:00 AM – Opening Session
10:00–11:00 AM – Wildcard Round
11:00–11:30 AM – Wildcard Winner Announced
11:00 AM–1:00 PM – Lunch Break & Networking
1:00–2:00 PM – Championship Round
2:00–2:30 PM – Judge Deliberations
2:30–3:00 PM – Awards Ceremony
Startup Support That Goes Beyond the Pitch
Before stepping on stage, pitchGNV teams received a complimentary pitch workshop from StarterStudio, helping them refine their presentations. Championship Round teams will also receive free scholarships to StarterStudio’s Idea or Build Stage programs, giving them access to expert guidance and resources to keep growing beyond the competition.
🏆 $5K Grand Prize Sponsored by UF Warrington EIC
The University of Florida Warrington College of Business Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center is sponsoring a $5,000 grand prize for the winning startup. The center powers entrepreneurship across the #GatorNation and beyond—helping innovators turn ideas into reality. 🐊
