The Spirited Innovation Lab is a business design and innovation competition fueled by Pronghorn to support rising Black entrepreneurs with interest in the spirits industry.
Create a new business idea for the spirits industry (brand development, production, design, or any related innovation). It is recommended that you use this 10-slide pitch deck structure; however you may compile your slides in any way you choose.
Up to 10 teams will have the opportunity to pitch solutions in a regional competition. Selected finalist teams will have the opportunity to present to a panel of executive leaders and influencers in the spirits industry.
Finalists receive $10K and attend the Spirits Creative Showcase in Miami, FL.
The winning group will receive an additional $15K for a total of $25K.
Undergraduate students (21+ years of age by June 1, 2023), graduate student or recent HBCU alumni with a passion for creating change within the spirits industry
Groups can be a mixture of undergraduate and graduate students, from any major
Teams of 2-5 participants with at least two members being students or alumni of one of our HBCU partner colleges/universities
Submission deadline is March 31, 2023.
Apply hereApplication opens
Deadline to submit Innovation Pitch Slides
Notification of Finals
Final Pitch Presentation
(Finalist teams' travel arrangements and costs covered by Pronghorn)
Pronghorn is a standalone business dedicated to cultivating the next generation of Black founders, executive leaders, and entrepreneurs in the Spirits industry.
