REV Pitch prize pool approaches $20,000 for 2026 competition

Entrepreneurs and small business owners have until Sept. 10 to apply for the 2026 REV Pitch competition, with the prize pool now nearing $20,000 and organizers expecting another competitive field.

TS Bank’s Kelsey Stupfell said the total had reached $19,750 as of the latest count, with additional support still possible before the event. The money is awarded to winning businesses with no repayment required. “No strings attached,” Stupfell said. “We want folks to use it for what they’re intending to use it for, what they pitch for, but yes, it’s free and clear.”

Applications remain open until midnight Sept. 10 at tsbank.com/rev. Stupfell noted that organizers are looking for information about the business, current sales and plans for the next several years, along with a clear explanation of how the money would be used.

The competition is open to businesses at different stages. Some applicants are still in the startup phase, while others may already be established and looking to add a product, service or another part of the operation.

Specificity can make a difference when applications are reviewed. Stupfell pointed to Southern Hills Veterinary Clinic, a previous winner that requested funding for a portable X-ray machine that could be used while serving horses and other animals throughout western Iowa. The proposal clearly identified the need, the equipment that could solve it and the effect the purchase could have on the business.

That type of planning is part of the value of applying, even for businesses that do not ultimately reach the finals. “Even just going through the application process, that’s really helpful for business owners,” Stupfell explained. “Maybe I haven’t really thought about this or I need to think about this.”

REV Pitch is organized through a partnership between TS Bank and Advance Southwest Iowa, with support from businesses and organizations throughout the region. Stupfell said more than 20 sponsors are involved this year, helping push the available prize money higher than in previous years.

Applicants who have entered before are also encouraged to try again. Businesses change, ideas develop and owners often learn from watching past finalists explain their plans. Stupfell said previous applicants have taken what they learned from the process and used it to improve their businesses or prepare for future competitions.

The field will eventually be narrowed to five finalists who will make their pitches on stage. Another five businesses will be selected as spotlight participants and will compete for a $500 People’s Choice Award.

The final event is scheduled for Nov. 5 from 4 to 7 p.m. at PACE in Council Bluffs. In addition to the competition itself, organizers see the evening as an opportunity for entrepreneurs to meet other business owners, potential partners and people who may be able to help them take the next step.

“The big check is awesome and that helps people get across the finish line in some ways,” Stupfell said. “But there’s also something about meeting that next best person that you might need to be introduced to.”

Stupfell added that applicants should not be discouraged if public speaking is not one of their strengths. Finalists have appeared on stage with different levels of experience and preparation, and the competition is not limited to polished presenters. “You can just show up as yourself on stage, whatever that looks like,” she noted.

The five finalists are expected to be announced during the first week of October after applications are reviewed by an independent third-party committee. Stupfell said that process keeps the judging separate from the organizers and sponsors.

Applications must be submitted by midnight Sept. 10. Business owners interested in applying can find the form and additional information at tsbank.com/rev.