Scholarship Challenge
Challenge
The InnovateHERS Scholarship Challenge invites applicants to create a compelling two-page business plan for a product or service of their choice, whether real or hypothetical. The plan must clearly outline the concept, target market, value proposition, financial plan, and implementation strategy, and include at least one visual representation of the idea. Submissions will be judged on creativity, clarity, feasibility, market understanding, and presentation, with the goal of identifying innovative ideas that demonstrate both vision and practicality. This is your opportunity to showcase your entrepreneurial skills, think boldly, and bring your best ideas to life.
Prizes
The InnovateHERS program awards 3 scholarships per cycle for winning the Business Plan Competition. The award tiers are as follows:
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1st Place: $500
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2nd Place $250
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3rd Place: $100
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4th Place: Recognition
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5th Place: Recognition
All top 5 submissions will be featured in the Hall of Fame
All Participants will receive a participation certificate
Eligibility
To participate in the InnovateHERS business competition, competitors must meet this eligibility criteria
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Be in groups of 1-3
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Be in grades 7th-12th
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Identify as Female (teams only need to have 1 girl)
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Applicants can be from any location, but must be able to receive funds via bank transfer or check.
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Have not place 1st, 2nd, or 3rd in previous InnovateHERS competition
Judging
Our judges include teachers, college professors, and business people. When evaluating these submissions they will go through a blind review process to ensure zero bias. If you have any questions about our judges, please reach out to us.
Timeline
Submissions Open: March 20th 2026
Early Bird Submissions Close: May 8th 2026
Results Returned: Late May 2026
Rolling Applications! Apply even if you missed the deadline.