Mott Million Dollar Challenge invites next generation to lead with bold ideas

FLINT, Michigan — The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation has launched the Mott Million Dollar Challenge, a national pitch competition inviting K–12 students across the United States to submit innovative business ideas or creative solutions to community issues.

Open to students ages 18 and under, the challenge awards a share of $1 million in cash prizes and is part of the Foundation’s centennial celebration. Students may enter individually or in teams of up to three by submitting a 30 to 90-second video pitch outlining their idea and the problem it addresses. Submissions are open through Feb. 27, 2026.

“Every young person has the potential to make a difference,” said Ridgway White, president and CEO of the Mott Foundation. “C.S. Mott’s innovative spirit made the Mott Foundation possible, so we’re honoring that legacy by equipping the next generation with essential 21st-century skills: leadership, creativity, and ingenuity.”

More than 1,000 prizes will be awarded in the initial round. Judges will then select 60 finalists, who will receive additional cash awards and be invited to participate in an in-person competition in Flint in June 2026. Finalists will also receive coaching to strengthen their business plans or social solutions before presenting to judges and peers.

The competition is funded by the Mott Foundation and administered by the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship, in collaboration with VentureLab, Young Entrepreneur Institute, the Afterschool Alliance, and Collaborative Communications.

“Young people are the world’s most powerful innovators,” said Dr. J.D. LaRock, NFTE president and CEO. “They see opportunities where others see obstacles and imagine solutions that can reshape entire communities. That’s why we view entrepreneurship education as essential, not optional. Students gain the mindset, skills, and confidence to turn bold ideas into action and drive real change.”

NFTE is leading the competition and collaborating with partners across the country to invite students in every state to see themselves as capable, creative problem-solvers who will shape the future.

Additional details and submission instructions are available at mottmillion.org.