2026 NFTE Midwest Regional Showcase Chicago: Quarterfinals

 

You’re invited to serve as a judge for NFTE’s Regional Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge—our culminating student business pitch competition.

As a judge, you’ll review business plans, score pitches, and provide feedback through our platform, Reviewr. Judging panels include investors, entrepreneurs, business leaders and other professionals from across industries. You’ll also have the opportunity to interact directly with young NFTE entrepreneurs as they present their ideas.

Your insights will help select the most innovative student ventures and support the next generation of entrepreneurs in the Chicago region.

The Quarterfinals will take place on Thursday, April 30th, 2026 which will lead to the Semifinals.

The top businesses will move to the final round, which will take place on Tuesday, May 19th. The regional top businesses will advance to the National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge in November 2026 to compete in nationals for a grand prize award for their business.  The Regional Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge is presented by EY, Ingredion and Slalom. 

Let us know if you can join us—thank you for being part of the NFTE community!
Midwest Chicago Virtual Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge
Quarterfinals Judging **Virtual Live Event via Zoom

**Includes Judge Orientation  
 
Your Role 
As a volunteer judge, you’ll support NFTE students by providing constructive feedback on their business ideas and presentations. During this virtual session, you’ll review 5–6 student business plans and evaluate their pitches using the NFTE scoring rubric. You’ll collaborate with fellow judges to ask questions, assess entrepreneurial thinking, and help identify the most promising and innovative solutions.

Your expertise will help shape the next generation of young entrepreneurs.

 

• Tech requirements: Computer, camera and mic access, and strong internet connection

How to Prepare

NFTE will provide the resources needed to support your judging experience, including:
  •  A Judge Guide with step-by-step instructions
  •  Access to the Reviewr platform to view student business plans
  •  The official NFTE scoring rubric
  •  A brief orientation at the start of the session to walk you through everything.

No previous experience judging is necessary—we’re here to support you every step of the way!