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 updated to April 7, 2023
Apply hereApplication opens
Updated deadline to submit Innovation Pitch Slides. Slides will be reviewed and notified on a first come, first served basis.
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.
