The wait is over! The ABC Business Plan Competition 2026 is here, giving students the chance to turn their innovative ideas into real-world business opportunities. This competition is designed to spark creativity, strategic thinking, and hands-on problem-solving.
This guide covers everything you need to know—registration, eligibility, competition phases, and scholarship opportunities. Read on to discover how you can compete, innovate, and earn a chance to join ABC’s programs in Toronto or Silicon Valley!
Who Can Participate In The Competition?
The competition welcomes teams of two students, from the same or different universities. Each team must propose a unique business idea, and participants may only join one team. Both members should decide together on their preferred program location, either Silicon Valley or Toronto.
General Competition Details
- Starting Date: November 1, 2025
- Ending Date: November 24, 2025 (11:59 PM CET)
- Winners Announcement Date: December 10, 2025
Steps to Register for a Competition
The registration process consists of the following steps:
- First, fill out the application form by providing your personal details, including your academic background, resume, LinkedIn profile, and other relevant information.
- Next, select your preferred location, either ABC Silicon Valley or ABC Toronto.
- After submitting your application, you’ll receive the business plan template via email.
- Finally, complete the template carefully, save it as a PDF, and send it to competition@abcbootcamps.com.
Competition Phases
The competition features three main phases, each designed to identify the most promising and innovative business ideas.
Phase 1: Developing and Submitting a Business Plan
At the first stage, teams will use the provided template to structure their business idea. The document should include the following details:
- Team information
- Business idea name
- Problem and target audience
- Proposed solution
- Market size and potential
- Business model and revenue strategy
- Competitive advantage
- Growth potential
Phase 2: Team Interviews
Shortlisted teams will be invited to a brief interview with an ABC Team member to introduce themselves, present their business idea in a five-minute pitch, and discuss their chosen ABC program and motivations for applying.
Phase 3: Evaluation and Selection of Winners
A panel of expert judges will evaluate each entry based on the following criteria:
- Does the idea address a real-world problem?
- Is there significant growth potential?
- Is the business model practical and sustainable?
- How effectively does the team communicate its vision?
Prizes and Scholarships
Three teams will be awarded scholarships based on their performance. Each scholarship applies to the team as a whole and covers a percentage of the tuition fee.
- 1st Prize: 100% scholarship (per team)
- 2nd Prize: 50% scholarship (per team)
- 3rd Prize: 25% scholarship (per team)
The scholarship covers:
- On-campus housing
- Welcome package
- Lectures, seminars, and workshops
- Course materials
- Networking opportunities
- Company visits
- Certificate of Completion
- 24/7 assistance from the ABC Team
- Exclusive access to the ABC Alumni network
- A possibility to become part of the ABC Team
- Organized day trip to San Francisco or Niagara Falls (depending on the location)
Why You Can’t Miss This Opportunity
This competition is a valuable opportunity for students to develop their entrepreneurial mindset and showcase their innovative thinking. By participating, you will:
- Refine your business idea and sharpen your problem-solving skills.
- Build valuable connections with like-minded peers in Silicon Valley or Toronto.
- Learn from industry professionals and get a behind-the-scenes look at companies shaping two of the world’s most dynamic innovation hubs.
Apply Today and Compete for a Scholarship
Find a like-minded partner, craft your strongest idea, and seize the chance to make your mark. Compete for a scholarship and join ABC’s programs in Toronto or Silicon Valley, gaining the experience and connections to bring your entrepreneurial vision to life!
