application process

NOTE: The 2024 competition is now closed. Visit this website or follow on Instagram for updates on the 2025 competition.

Eligibility: All students (Kindergarten - 12th grade) in Contra Costa County may apply. Limit one application per business. If a team is applying, one team leader must be designated.  

Criteria: Applications will be evaluated based on the applicant’s enthusiasm for entrepreneurship, how the business is presented, the viability of the business, and how the prize money will be used to grow a business. 

2024 Competition Timeline and Details:  

September 2023 - Application opens 

November 15, 2023 - Application deadline 

Nov. & Dec. 2023 - Finalist Selection Committee reviews applications  

January 2024 - Finalists announced 

February 6, 2024 - Finalist Pitch Event at the Lafayette Library.Winners receive $1,000 (first place), $500 (second place), $250 (third place). Prizes distributed in the form of Visa cash cards.  

To apply, please complete the questions below. Attaching your pitch video is optional but highly encouraged! Video must be less than 2 minutes. You may complete the application using this Google Form if you plan to submit a large video file, or email your video file to contracostasharktank@gmail.com if it's too large to attach below. Good luck!