February 18, 2026
The University of Utah’s Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute is inviting Utahns to attend and participate in a regional event that serves as a gateway to a global competition offering a $1 million investment to the winner. It won’t be easy, however, with entrepreneurs from around the world taking part.
Hosted by venture capital icon Tim Draper, the Meet the Drapers pitch competition is a recurring series that combines live investment decisions with audience participation, allowing viewers to vote for their favorite companies.
How it works is simple: Preliminary events are held in 10 locations across the United States, including Salt Lake City. One startup from each event advances to the semifinals, and from there, the top three companies with the most votes move on to pitch in the season finale.
Stakes are significant. The overall winner receives a $1 million investment, with second place earning $500,000, and third place taking home $250,000. For those interested in participating, the application deadline is fast approaching on Feb. 25, with the event scheduled for March 20 at Lassonde Studios.
Need more time to apply? Five additional U.S.-based events will be held between now and June 14, offering founders multiple opportunities to compete. To learn more, apply to participate, or register as a spectator, visit the Meet the Drapers website.
Looking to further support your small business in Utah? Visit the Startup State Initiative’s resource page to find more tools, programs, and communities to move your business forward, or learn how to start your business in Utah.
The information in this article is current as of the publishing date and is intended for informational purposes only. This article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal, tax, or business advice. Any resources and organizations mentioned, unless an entity of or a partner of the state of Utah, are not formally endorsed by the Startup State Initiative or state of Utah.