Here’s What Aspiring Entrepreneurs Should Know About GrowthCon 2026’s Killer Pitch Competition
Turn your AI-driven business solution into the next GrowthCon 2026 Killer Pitch champion.
What is the Killer Pitch Competition?
The Killer Pitch Competition is GrowthCon 2026’s pitching competition, where aspiring entrepreneurs, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) owners, and business students present AI-driven business solutions that address challenges faced by Philippine MSMEs.
Who can join the Killer Pitch Competition?
The competition is open to teams of up to five (5) members. composed of any of the following:
- MSME owners looking to scale their businesses
- Startup and early-stage founders (0–3 years)
- 3rd- and 4th-year business students
What kind of business ideas are eligible?
This year’s competition focuses on AI-driven solutions that address real challenges faced by Philippine MSMEs. Ideas may be at the concept stage or from existing early-stage ventures, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
All submitted materials must be original work. Any form of plagiarism or misrepresentation will result in immediate disqualification.
Who are the past winning GrowthCon pitches?
Here are the previous winners of GrowthCon:
GrowthCon PH 2025
- Champion – Clinivue
- 1st runner-up – buddybetes
- 2nd runner-up – agap.ai
GrowthCon PH 2024
- Champion – Remotify
What are the required submission materials?
Teams must submit:
- Completed Online Application Form
- Pitch Deck outlining these points:
- Problem Being Addressed
- Solution/Business Idea
- Target Market
- Value Proposition
- Business Model
- Go-To-Market Strategy
- Financials
- Growth/Scaling Plans
- Five (5)-minute Pitch Video
Where do I submit my entry?
Subscribe to The Business Manual to gain access to the official submission link for The Killer Pitch Competition entries.
Is there a submission deadline?
Yes. All entries must be submitted on or before July 13, 2026.
How will entries be evaluated?
Entries will undergo an initial screening by The Business Manual. Judges will evaluate submissions based on the following criteria:
- Business Viability & Traction (25%)
Is the business model realistic, sustainable, and well thought out?
- Problem & Solution Clarity (20%)
Does the business clearly define a real-world problem and offer a viable, impactful solution?
- AI Integration (25%)
How is AI meaningfully used in the solution?
- Scalability & Growth Potential (15%)
Is the solution capable of scaling sustainably over time?
- Pitch Clarity & Execution (15%)
Is the pitch clear and compelling to the judges?
How many finalists will be selected and notified?
The Business Manual team will evaluate all competition entries based on the criteria outlined. The top five (5) teams will advance to the live finals at GrowthCon 2026.
Shortlisted finalists will receive an official confirmation via email after the screening process.
What happens during the live finals?
During GrowthCon 2026, which will be held on July 23 at SM Aura Premier’s Samsung Hall, each finalist team will present and participate in the following:
- A 5-minute live pitch
- A 5-minute Q&A session with the panel of judges
What will The Killer Pitch winners receive?
The winners will receive the following media value prizes:
Champion: P500,000
1st Runner-Up: P300,000
2nd Runner-Up: P150,000
All winners will also have the opportunity to receive mentorship and entrepreneurial support from the AGC Power Holdings ecosystem.
Is there an entry fee?
There is no entry fee. However, a valid subscription to The Business Manual is required for registration.
What makes a good business pitch?
In September 2025, The Business Manual shared key advice for entrepreneurs who want to improve their pitching performances.
Here are some helpful tips pitchers should know:
- Deliver A Clear Message – A business pitch should be concise, compelling, and easy to understand. Judges and investors do not have time for complicated presentations.
- Be Knowledgeable About Business Terms – Understanding business terms can boost your confidence, which improves the overall presentation.
- Use Engaging Visuals – Your visuals should support your storytelling and overall business vision from start to finish.
Who should I contact if I have questions about my application?
For inquiries regarding eligibility, submissions, or the competition, please contact The Business Manual team through the official GrowthCon communication channels.
