Pitch-Off

Join us for the end-of-semester Pitch-Off, celebrating exciting ideas, ventures and founders from across the University of Edinburgh.

How to take part

There are three ways you can take part in the Pitch-Off:

Pitch in the Sandbox Category Pitch in the Open Category Come and Watch 
For students & alumni (up to 2 years post-graduation) who took part in a Sandbox between Sept–Nov 2026.For all students & alumni (up to 2 years post-graduation), whether or not you've done Sandbox.For all University staff, students and alumni.
Put your Sandbox idea to the test against fellow participants. Up to 6 finalists pitch live.Take the stage with your idea or venture. Up to 5 finalists pitch live.Cheer on finalists, hear fresh ideas and connect with founders, judges and the entrepreneurial community afterwards.

 

Applying to pitch

Pitching places are limited. Anyone wishing to compete must submit a 1-minute video pitch below. Applications for this Pitch-Off close on 25th November 2026. 

All finalists must be available to pitch in-person on this date. Unfortunately, we are unable to support hybrid or online pitching. During the live competition, each finalists will have: 

  • 3 minutes to pitch 
  • One question from the lead judge, with up to 2 minutes to respond 

Finalists compete within their own category, with separate prizes for the Sandbox Pitch-Off and the Open Pitch Competition. 

 

 

 

Included in the event:

  • Welcome and Introductions 
  • Sandbox Pitch-Off
  • Short Break 
  • Open Pitch Competition 
  • Judge's deliberation and open mic 
  • Prize presentations and closing remarks 
  • Networking 

 

Sandbox Pitch-Off judging

  • Each industry judge leads on the challenge they sponsored or supported.
  • All judges score every pitch, not just their own challenge area.
  • The relevant lead judge asks one question after each pitch (up to 2 mins to respond).
  • Other judges don't ask questions live but can note points for deliberation.
  • All judges, including the internal advisory judge, contribute to the final decision.
  • If consensus can't be reached, the lead judge has the casting vote for their category.

Open Pitch Competition judging

  • The internal advisory judge acts as lead judge.
  • All industry judges score every finalist and join the deliberation.
  • The internal advisory judge asks one question after each pitch (up to 2 mins to respond).
  • If consensus can't be reached, the internal advisory judge has the casting vote.

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