Explorer Track Requirements
Explorer Track Round Breakdown & Requirements
Round Breakdown
Participants in the Explorer Track will compete in two rounds.
- The top 10 teams from round 1 will advance to Round 2.
- Results are announced on February 11th, 2026.
- During round 2, the last and final round for Explorer Track, teams will pitch virtually via zoom on March 18th, 2026, with the top 3 teams winning prize money.
- Results are announced on March 20th, 2026.
Below are the requirements for each round.
Round 1 Requirements
Online Application Submission:
What you'll need to submit by Sunday, February 1st, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST:
- Team Information.
- 50-word business thesis.
- Responses to 5 questions regarding your venture idea (250 words each).
Resources:
Criteria & Templates:
Helpful Workshop Recordings:
You can find additional recorded workshops through the Innovator's Academy here.
Round 2 Requirements
Online Application Submission:
What you'll need to submit by Sunday, March 15th, 2026 at 11:59 PM EDT:
- Updated 50-word business thesis.
- This will be shared with judges prior to the virtual pitch.
- 5-slide PowerPoint deck (.pptx).
- Creative fonts and designs are welcome, but must be PowerPoint-compatible.
Virtual Pitch:
Pitch virtually on Wednesday, March 18th, 2026 between 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM EDT during an assigned 16-minute session, which includes:
- 5-min virtual pitch with the PowerPoint deck
- 6-min Q&A with judges
- 5-min reserved for judge scoring and minor schedule fluctuations
Note: Per our eligibility requirements, only GW-affiliated members may pitch during live rounds (Round 2, Round 3, Award Ceremony). Non-GW teammates may assist behind the scenes or during Q&A.
Mentor Meetings:
Meet with your assigned mentor at least twice before Round 2.
- Mentor Meeting #1: Discuss Round 1 feedback and review Round 2 draft materials.
- Mentor Meeting #2: Come prepared to discuss a Unit Level Cost Analysis.
Resources:
Criteria & Templates:
Supplemental Worksheets:
Helpful Workshop Recordings:
You can find additional recorded workshops through the Innovator's Academy here.