Applications have opened for the TC Group Start-Up Pitch Challenge, which will give entrepreneurs and innovators the opportunity to compete for up to £12,500 worth of expert support, mentoring and business growth expertise.
The Next Big Thing: Start-Up Pitch Challenge will take place at x+why, Unity Place, Milton Keynes, on Friday October 16 as part of the finale programme for MK Tech Week 2026.
Aspiring founders, early-stage businesses and innovators developing products, services or technologies are being invited to apply. Entries may range from fledgling concepts and working prototypes to businesses already gaining traction.
Shortlisted applicants will pitch their ideas, products and businesses to a panel of entrepreneurs, investors, innovation specialists and business leaders at the free-to-attend event.
The TC Group Start-Up Pitch Challenge will be hosted by Felix Medd, Director – Head of R&D at TC Group.
The judging panel comprises Owen Moran, Ecosystem Manager at Barclays Eagle Labs; Stephen Henson, Associate Director at TC Group; Benn Klewpatinond, Founder and Innovation & Product Realisation Partner at Inond®; Jeremy Hindle, an angel investor, tech founder and Y Combinator alumnus who has invested in more than 120 Y Combinator businesses; and Greg Edwards, Founder of Hooper Quinn and an innovation specialist supporting advanced engineering and technology businesses.
All finalists will receive dedicated pitch coaching and preparation support from Barclays Eagle Labs. They will also have the opportunity to present their ideas to investors, founders, business leaders and technology professionals.
The winner will receive a prize package worth up to £12,500 and will be able to choose between two headline options. The first focuses on product development and commercialisation through Inond® and Hooper Quinn. The second is a founder growth and investment package featuring mentoring from Jeremy.
Both packages include three additional hours of personalised mentoring and business growth support from Barclays Eagle Labs, as well as one year’s complimentary R&D Tax Credit advice, preparation and submission support from TC Group.
The runner-up will receive the alternative prize package, while a highly commended entrant will receive recognition and visibility across Milton Keynes’ business and technology community.
The TC Group Start-Up Pitch Challenge is open to people working on ideas across areas including AI, software, engineering, sustainability technologies and consumer products.
Felix said: “Milton Keynes has an incredible track record of innovation and entrepreneurship, and we’re excited to shine a spotlight on the founders, problem-solvers and innovators who are shaping what’s next. This isn’t just about winning a trophy. It’s about gaining access to experienced founders, investors, innovators and business leaders who can help turn an idea into reality.”
Applications close on Friday October 2. Successful applicants will be invited to take part in the live final from 5pm until 8.30pm on Friday October 16.
The event is free to attend for spectators, with pizza, drinks and networking included.
The value of the prize package will depend on the selected option and is subject to availability, eligibility criteria and the individual providers’ terms and conditions. The R&D Tax Credit support is valued at up to £8,000 and is subject to qualifying R&D activity being identified and approved by TC Group’s R&D Compliance Lead in accordance with current legislation and HMRC guidance.
