Pitch Workshop and LIVE Pitch Contest in San Diego

National University's Live Pitch Workshop & Contest

May 30, 2025 | 9980 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92131

Hosted by National University's Business Centers CBEM and CAVO

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Event Itinerary

Time Activity

2:30 PM – 3:00 PM Check-In and Networking

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Workshop: How to Create a Winning Pitch

- Crafting a Strong Message

- Common Mistakes to Avoid

- Q&A and Individual Support

5:00 PM – 6:30 PM 5-Minute Pitch Competition (with visual aids allowed)

6:30 PM – 7:00 PM Pizza & Drinks Social

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM 3-Minute Articulated Pitch Competition (no visuals)

8:00 PM Judges' Deliberation and Winners Announcement

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About the Workshop

Led by National University faculty, this dynamic session will prepare participants to deliver high-impact pitches. Topics include:

• How to structure a clear and compelling pitch

• Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• How to engage your audience in under 5 minutes

• Individual Q&A and personal feedback

Perfect for anyone refining their ideas before the competition—or anyone wanting to sharpen their pitching skills!

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Pitch Contest Structure

Two separate sections will be held:

• 5-Minute Pitch: Presentation materials allowed (slides, visuals, videos, etc.)

• 3-Minute Pitch: No presentation materials allowed (prototype demonstrations permitted)

Prizes (for each competition):

First Place: $1,000

Second Place: $500

Third Place: $250

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Rules & Guidelines

• Time limits will be strictly enforced.

• Participants in the 5-minute pitch may use electronic aids; please check equipment during check-in.

• Participants in the 3-minute pitch may bring prototypes but may not use slides or electronic presentations.

• Respectful, professional behavior is required throughout the event.

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Judging Process

Judges will evaluate each pitch based on:

• Clarity of Idea and Problem/Solution Fit

• Innovation and Feasibility

• Presentation Delivery (Confidence, Engagement, Persuasiveness)

• Use of Visuals or Demonstration (where allowed)

• Overall Impact

Judges will deliberate at the end of both contests, and winners will be announced immediately afterward.

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Pizza & Drinks

Join us for a casual pizza and drinks break between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM—right after the 5-minute pitch contest and before the 3-minute pitch contest kicks off!