The Fishbowl Experience is a dynamic, veteran-owned pitch competition where entrepreneurs compete for over $50,000 in cash, services, and expert support. More than a pitch—this is your chance to build a brand with real backing.
Entrepreneurs from all industries and backgrounds are welcome! Whether you’re a founder with a proven business model or an early-stage innovator with a powerful idea, The Fishbowl is your platform. Veterans and underserved founders are strongly encouraged to apply.
There is no fee to apply to The Fishbowl Experience. We believe in removing barriers so that big ideas can swim.
Winners receive cash prizes, brand-building services, strategic consulting, and media exposure—with over $50,000+ in total value up for grabs. Plus, selected participants may be offered a long-term partnership to build their business beyond the pitch.
Nope! A full business plan is not required to apply—but having a clear understanding of your business model, revenue potential, and growth strategy will definitely help you stand out. We’ll ask questions that help you break that down simply.
The event takes place November 6–9, 2025 in Houston, Texas, with both in-person and hybrid elements to accommodate diverse needs.
We don’t just hand out checks. The Fishbowl Experience is a launchpad—pairing winners with a team of experts to help you scale, brand, and build long-term. It’s mentorship, money, and movement.
We’re open to all industries—tech, product-based, service, social impact, e-commerce, media, you name it. We’re looking for passion, originality, and grit. If you’re serious about building a business that matters, we want to hear from you.
A select group of semifinalists will be chosen to pitch live in Houston. From there, a top group of finalists will compete for the main prizes and exclusive post-event support.
Nope! While we are proudly veteran-owned and support our veteran entrepreneur community, all entrepreneurs are welcome to apply.
You’ll receive your share of the cash + services package, press coverage, and the opportunity to work directly with our team to help take your business to the next level.
Absolutely. The Fishbowl Experience includes panels, networking mixers, workshops, and speaker events that are open to registered guests, founders, and community supporters.
Finalists will be notified in early October 2025 with detailed next steps for travel, presentation prep, and event access.
The name reflects our no-fluff, in-the-arena approach. In the fishbowl, you’re exposed, you’re seen, and you’re tested—but it’s also where ideas come alive, energy flows, and growth begins.
We welcome mission-aligned sponsors and partners who want to support entrepreneurship, innovation, and equity. Contact us directly at hello@thefishbowlexperience.com to get involved.
Your pitch should clearly explain your business, your “why,” the problem you solve, your target market, traction (if any), and what you would do with the prize support. Show passion, clarity, and vision. We want to see you believe in it before we do.
Yes! If you have a co-founder or key team member, you’re welcome to pitch together. Just make sure your presentation is smooth, focused, and within the time limit. Only one application per team is needed.
