SAVE $100 - USE CODE VIP100 - PRICES INCREASE JULY !
X
SAVE $100 - USE CODE VIP100 - PRICES INCREASE JULY ! X
$500,000 up for grabs.
No equity taken.
Eight founders pitch live on one stage in Dallas — October 8–10, 2026
applications open July 15–30
✓ Real access to decision-makers and resources
✓ Practical strategy you can implement immediately
✓ Networking and community with builders who get your journey
APply on the gsfhq App
Already a member? Start your application here
Become a member today for free.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Eight founders.
One stage.
The prize pool is valued at $500,000 — and it's built so no finalist walks away empty-handed. Founders compete in one of two tracks, so your business is measured against others built like it, not against a model that isn't yours. Eight finalists earn a spot on the stage. Every finalist is awarded a prize live at Good Soil Forum 2026, presented by Wells Fargo. At the top sits The Good Soil Award: a $150,000 grand prize, with all eight finalists in the running.
WHAT’S NEW IN 2026
TWO TRACKS
This year, founders compete in one of two tracks, so you're measured against peers — not against a business model that isn't yours.
TRACK 01
Tech‑Enabled
Seed stage, MVP required. Judged on traction relative to stage, technical defensibility, use of funds, and presentation.
4 Finalist Slots
TRACK 02
NON-Tech / CPG
Industry agnostic, product or service. Judged on soundness of plan, results to date, use of funds, and presentation.
4 Finalist Slots
One application. Self-select your track at submission.
THE PRIZES
Apply on the gsfhq App today
Already a member? Start your application here
Become a member today for free.
HOW TO ENTER
THREE STEPS
STEP 1
join good soil hq
Membership is free. All status updates, finalist announcements, and next steps are delivered through the Good Soil HQ app. Sign up here for Apple and here for Google.
STEP 2
Complete the Submission Form
Submit your application via the official submission form inside the Good Soil HQ app.
STEP 3
prepare your materials
Compile a concise business overview, a clear growth strategy, and your funding needs and intended use of capital. Show scalability and market positioning.
eligibility
who can apply.
✓ A for-profit business, legally incorporated and in good standing in the U.S.
✓ Received no more than $1 million in prior funding
✓ Not operating in an excluded industry (adult products/services, firearms, alcohol except restaurants, gambling, MLM, or illegal activity)
✓ An owner over 18 who represents the company in all competition matters.
✓ Employee annual income no more than $100,000; installment debt no more than $200,000 (unless a convertible note)
✓ One entry per company.
key dates
Mark Your Calendar
No late entries. Finalists must be present at Good Soil Forum 2026, presented by Wells Fargo to remain eligible for final prize consideration.
Already a member? Start your application here
Become a member today for free.
This Is Your Room.
If you've built something worth funding, apply, secure your seat, and pitch live for a share of $500,000.