2026 RISE Up Harlingen Business Pitch Competition
Revolutionizing Innovation, Startups and Entrepreneurs
The Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is now accepting applications for the 2026 RISE Up Harlingen Business Pitch Competition, brought to you in partnership with the UTRGV Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Center (ECC).
Powered by AdvanceUp Accelerator, this initiative is designed to empower early-stage startups and expanding businesses in Harlingen by offering access to expert mentorship and a platform to showcase innovative ideas. Participants will have the opportunity to refine and present their business pitches while competing for the following prize amounts: $30,000 for first place; $20,000 for second place; $15,000 for third place.
The 2026 RISE Up Harlingen Business Pitch Competition is scheduled to take place on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at the Harlingen Convention Center and will be open to the public.
Apply for RISE Up Harlingen
AdvanceUp Accelerator is a multi-week business development program facilitated by UTRGV ECC that provides mentorship, resources, and network opportunities, leading up to an exciting pitch competition on October 1, 2026. The course will begin on Monday, July 20, 2026 and will occur weekly; completion of the program is required in order to pitch. Participants must commit to establishing or maintaining business operations in the City of Harlingen, Texas.
Dates: July 20, 2026 through September 28, 2026 (Every Monday)
Times: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Location: Harlingen EDC (2424 Boxwood St, Ste 125, Harlingen TX 78550)
Those interested in pitching are encouraged to submit an application at the link below. The deadline to apply for consideration is Tuesday, July 6, 2026.
Sponsor RISE Up Harlingen
Sponsorship opportunities are available for companies interested in supporting the RISE Up Harlingen initiative and investing in local entrepreneurship. All contributions go directly toward prize money awarded to participating entrepreneurs.
For more information about the application process, or to learn about potential sponsorships, contact the Harlingen EDC’s Small Business & Startup Manager, Maria Escobar, at 956-966-2692 or mescobar@harlingenedc.com.