Stella Zhang New Venture Competition

Your idea is only as strong as the team behind it. In this competition, you’ll get the chance to collaborate with UC Irvine students, faculty, researchers, staff, and community members. Build a group with diverse skills, fresh perspectives, and the energy to take your venture to the next level.

Groups must have 2-6 members with at least 2 enrolled UC Irvine students. Affiliation with the business school is not required. (An enrolled student is defined as a bona fide UC Irvine student registered for at least two quarters during the current academic year.)

Present an original venture idea that is less than two years old. Ideas must be in the pre-incubator stage and cannot have received more than $10,000 in external funding from accelerators, incubators, companies, or investors. Teams that didn’t win last year are welcome to compete with the same idea, while past winners must submit a new concept. All business concepts must be created by the registered participants.

View Complete Eligibility Requirements, Rules & Application Details

Teams compete in one of five tracks, with guidance and feedback from mentors and judges who understand their business type.

First and second-place teams in each track at the Semi-Final Board Room Pitch round will win cash prizes and advance to the Grand Finale, where a grand prize will be awarded. Additional specialty prizes may also be offered. All semi-finalists receive AWS credits to build their websites.

Find teammates through events, workshops, and student networks, or team up with friends who share your entrepreneurial passion.

Open to all UC Irvine students! Submit your Concept Paper by completing the questionnaire and uploading your documents. Once verified, you’re officially entered.

No worries! We offer workshops and resources to help you brainstorm and refine ideas, and you can collaborate with your team to develop your concept.

Your Concept Paper should clearly present your business idea, target market, value proposition, revenue model, and team. Use it to showcase your vision and the potential impact of your venture.

It’s best to finalize your idea before submission for clarity and focus. Contact Stella Zhang NVC organizers if you need to discuss any changes.

Yes—students graduating in May 2026 or later are eligible to participate.

That’s perfectly fine! Stella Zhang NVC welcomes ideas at all stages. Just make sure your concept is original and meets eligibility criteria. Use the competition to get feedback and refine your idea.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, reach out to the Stella Zhang NVC organizing team at the Beall Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. You can also connect with mentors and faculty advisors who can provide support.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, reach out to the Stella Zhang NVC organizing team at the Beall Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. You can also connect with mentors and faculty advisors who can provide support.

Determine upfront how equity will be allocated among team members. Clear agreements can help avoid misunderstandings later in the competition.