Rice Business Plan Competition

The Rice Business Plan Competition is a multi-day pitch competition for student-led startups from universities around the world. It is hosted by the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and held in person at Rice University in Houston, Texas.

What you get

• Prizes and mentoring for the teams that reach the competition
• A chance to pitch to investors and receive their feedback
• An in-person event at Rice, from 8 to 10 April 2027

Who can apply

• Student-driven startups with at least two current student founders or managers
• At least one of those students must be a current graduate-degree student
• Startups from a college or university anywhere in the world
• Startups seeking funding or capital, that are a viable investment opportunity, and that stayed within the equity and revenue limits set for before 1 July 2026

How selection works: Startups are judged on their potential investability. Teams that reach the competition present in rounds, and at least two student members must take part in each round.

How to apply: Applications for the 2027 round open on 9 November 2026 and close on 29 January 2027. Info sessions are held before the deadline. Questions go to rbpc@rice.edu.