ThunderPitch

ThunderPitch 2026

A Showcase of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

ThunderPitch is Wheaton College's annual entrepreneurial pitch competition, where students present their innovative business ideas on stage before a live audience. Judged by a panel of business professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors, the event offers students the chance to gain valuable feedback, showcase their creativity, and compete for thousands of dollars in prize money. ThunderPitch embodies the spirit of innovation and provides a platform for future leaders to take their first steps towards entrepreneurial success.

We are proud to announce the fifth annual ThunderPitch competition.

Thursday, April 23, 2026
7:00pm
Barrows Auditorium, Billy Graham Hall

How It Started

Years ago, Wheaton students initiated a campus wide pitch competition that was student run and facilitated. But as different generations of students came through, the energy for an annual event waxed and waned. With the establishment of the Harrison Chair in Entrepreneurship, the opportunity for a regular event supported by faculty and incorporated into the curriculum emerged. ThunderPitch began as part of a class requirement, but now the competition is open to anyone on campus with an entrepreneurial idea.

ThunderPitch Award Categories

AndersonPrize - Grand Prize
MastadonPrize - High Impact Idea
WheatiePrize - Most Likely To Succeed
ThunderPrize - People's Choice*
*Audience members can select the ThunderPrize - a people's choice award - by attending the event and voting for their favorite pitch.