Pop Up & Pitch Grant Competition at Durag Festival 2025 ($1,000 grant)
Deadline: June 4, 2025
The Durag Festival 2025 is accepting applications for the Pop Up & Pitch Grant Competition, in partnership with ByBlack, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., and the DuGhood Foundation. The contest aims to showcase and support emerging Black innovators from HBCUs across various industries. Participants have the chance to win a $1,000 cash grant during a live pitch on June 21, 2025, at Durag Fest. Winners also receive funding opportunities, media exposure, business coaching, and additional resources. Eligibility is open to current HBCU students and recent alumni (graduated in 2022 or later), either individually or in teams, with at least 50% ownership or management by an HBCU-affiliated person. Applications are due by June 4, 2024, and require a business overview, a 60-second pitch video, and proof of HBCU enrollment or graduation. Finalists must purchase a ticket to attend the live event.
Applications are now open for the exciting Pop Up & Pitch Grant Competition at Durag Festival 2025! This unique event is organized in partnership with ByBlack, powered by U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., and the DuGhood Foundation. The Pop Out & Pitch competition is designed to be a fun, fast-paced platform that highlights and celebrates the next generation of Black innovators emerging from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Whether you are running a startup, building a brand, or developing a bold new idea, this is your opportunity to secure funding, gain exposure, and receive support in front of a live audience. One outstanding participant will be awarded $1,000 in cash during the live pitch showcase at Durag Fest, scheduled for June 21, 2025.
Benefits for Winners Include:
– A $1,000 non-dilutive grant to help propel your venture
– Access to exclusive grant lists to assist in securing additional funding sources
– Features in the U.S. Black Chambers newsletter, providing increased visibility
– Spotlight in a media article to amplify your brand story
– Business Coaching 101: a business plan strategy session designed to help refine and scale your business
Eligibility Criteria:
This opportunity is open to:
– Current students enrolled at an HBCU
– Recent alumni who graduated from an HBCU in 2022 or later
– Applicants from any industry — whether tech, beauty, fashion, food, or beyond. No business is too early-stage or niche to apply.
– You can apply as an individual or as part of a team. If applying as a team, at least 50% of the business must be owned or managed by an eligible HBCU student or recent alum.
Application Process:
To participate, submit your application online by June 4 at 11:59 PM ET. Your application must include:
– A brief written overview of your business or idea
– A 60-second pitch video introducing yourself and explaining what makes your concept powerful
– Proof of HBCU enrollment or graduation (such as a student ID or diploma from 2022 or later)
Please Note: Finalists will be required to purchase a general admission ticket to Durag Fest in order to participate in the live event.
Don’t miss this chance to showcase your innovative ideas, gain valuable exposure, and take a significant step forward in your entrepreneurial journey. Apply now and get ready to pitch your way to success at Durag Festival 2025!
Don’t miss your chance to shine at Durag Festival 2025 by applying to the Pop Up & Pitch Grant Competition. This dynamic platform offers HBCU students and recent alumni an incredible opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas, secure funding, and elevate their ventures through exposure and mentorship. With a $1,000 grant, business coaching, and media features on the line, the competition is designed to support and celebrate the next generation of Black entrepreneurs. Submit your application by June 4th and take a bold step toward making your vision a reality. We look forward to seeing your ideas thrive at Durag Fest 2025!
For more information, visit Pop Up & Pitch Grant Competition.