The Patton Foundation will kick off its upcoming Entrepreneurship Challenge at Brentwood Academy on September 22, leading up to the main competition on November 12. Modeled after the popular “Shark Tank” format, this live pitch event will showcase the creativity and determination of BA’s student entrepreneurs.
Participants will spend the weeks between kickoff and competition refining their ideas, developing business plans, and preparing to present to a panel of seasoned judges. The top finalists will compete for grant funding up to $5,000 to bring their ventures to life, gaining valuable experience in pitching, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking.
The Challenge is part of the Patton Foundation’s mission to equip Tennessee’s next generation of innovators with the tools, mentorship, and confidence to make a lasting impact in business and their communities.
How Do I Participate?
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Prepare a business idea that you can communicate well. You want one that shows you understand the pain point.
Work with our PF mentor, Ernie Chappell to hone your pitch.
Ernie Chappell’s Office Hours (Upper School Conference Room)
Tuesday, 9/23 — 2:00–3:00 PM
Thursday, 10/2 — 1:00–1:45 PM
Thursday, 10/9 — 2:00–3:00 PM
Tuesday, 10/14 — 2:00–3:00 PM
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Complete the submission form linked below. Prepare to upload a 90 second video to describe your business idea.
Deadline to Enter: Tuesday, October 21 (9:00PM)
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Our team will look at all submissions and select 6 finalists.
If you’re a finalist, practice your pitch and get ready to present a 10-minute pitch followed by a 5-minute Q&A with the judges.
Additional Ernie Chappell Office Hours for finalists (Upper School Conference Room): Monday, 11/3 — 1:00–3:00 PM
Finalists Announced: Tuesday, October 28 (5:00PM)
Final Presentations Due: Friday, November 7 (9:00PM)
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Showcase your business idea in front of our judges for a chance to win up to $5,000!
Live Pitch Competition: Wednesday, November 12 (5:30PM)