Kansas City's 'Bracket Bash' Pitch Battle Returns with $25K Prize in 2026

A statewide startup pitch competition is returning to Kansas City for its second year. The Gamechangers & Champions 2026 'Bracket Bash' will take place on March 10 at the University of Kansas Conference Center in Lawrence. Organisers have now opened applications and event registration for entrepreneurs, investors, and innovation leaders.

The event is organised by NXTUS, the Kansas Department of Commerce, and KU Innovation Park. It follows the success of the 2025 inaugural competition, which awarded $20,000 to the winning startup and drew nearly 300 attendees.

This year's competition will feature Kansas City-based startups at the pre-seed and seed stages. They will compete in a bracket-style pitch format, with the top prize set at $25,000, sponsored by the University of Kansas Business School. Beyond the pitch battles, the event will include networking sessions, expert panels, and a keynote presentation.

Key capital providers will again participate, helping connect top startups with follow-on funding. After the event, NXTUS, Accelerate Venture Partners, and the OREAD Angel Group will coordinate further investment opportunities for the most promising competitors.

The 2026 edition builds on last year's momentum, offering startups a chance to secure funding and exposure. Registration is now open for founders, investors, and community members looking to take part in the competition or attend the event on Eventbrite.