Local Entrepreneurs Pitch Their Ideas For Big Cash Prizes

ST. CLOUD (WJON News) -- Local entrepreneurs will put their ideas to the test next week.  The Trailblazer Challenge is on Thursday, March 12th, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Pioneer Place on Fifth in downtown St. Cloud.

It's hosted by Greater St. Cloud, in partnership with ILT Studios.

The 2026 Trailblazer Challenge is designed to identify, support, and propel early-stage businesses.  The competition is open to residents of Central and East-Central Minnesota who have a new business idea or a company that has been incorporated for less than one year.  During next week's live event, five finalists will pitch their business ideas to a panel of expert judges, giving the entrepreneurs a chance to get feedback, visibility, and connections in the business community.

Get our free mobile app

Cash prizes totaling up to $5,500 will be awarded to help the winners advance their business ideas.  Also, one of the top finalists will earn an automatic semifinalist spot in the 2026 MN Cup, Minnesota's largest statewide startup competition hosted by the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management.