Sign up to participate in the National Student Showcase in July
The National Student Showcase is a high-energy, live marketplace event held at Convene Willis Tower in Chicago immediately following the 2026 INCubatoredu National Pitch.
This event invites both current and past INCubatoredu and ACCELeratoredu student teams to set up shop, sell their products, and promote their brands to an influential audience of over 200 guests. It’s the ultimate real-world test. Student founders step out of the classroom to pitch, pivot, and connect with real customers and mentors on the fly! Through the innovative "Showcase Bucks" system, where students collect guest currency to trade for real money after the event, teams experience the direct correlation between their entrepreneurial hustle and financial success.
Students share the 'showcase' experience!
About the Event
Q1: Who can participate in the National Student Showcase?
We welcome all current and past INCubatoredu and ACCELeratoredu businesses! Whether you're a fresh startup or an established alum brand, we want to see you there.
Q2: What should I bring to the National Student Showcase?
Bring your products, prototypes, signage, and plenty of business cards! This is your chance to get real-world feedback from over 200+ guests, including potential investors and mentors.
Q3: What is provided?
We provide the 6-foot table, but the rest is your choice. Please arrive with all devices fully charged. Power is extremely limited and reserved strictly for businesses that require it for their product to function (available by request only). It is assumed you will stand by your table, unless a seat is necessary.
Q4: What are "Showcase Bucks" and how do they work?
The Showcase is the grand finale of our annual conference, where 200+ educators from across the country gather. We give each attendee "Showcase Bucks” to spend on student businesses—a grand total of $5,000! They can buy your products or invest in your startup with the Bucks. When the event ends, you trade in your earned Bucks for REAL CASH.
Q5: Can I accept Venmo, Zelle, cash, etc., in addition to the “Showcase Bucks”?
Absolutely! We encourage you to be ready for all forms of payment. The $5,000 in "Showcase Bucks" is a bonus to ensure every team has the opportunity to earn.
Q6: What if I have a service-based business or no physical inventory?
No problem! You can use your table to market your business, collect email addresses and preorders, and collect donations via Showcase Bucks. It's a great time to network!
Q7: Are there travel reimbursements?
Travel and lodging costs are not reimbursed.
Q8: How do we sign up?
A Google Form will be available on March 31, 2026. You will find it linked to this page, and it will be shared with all member teachers via email.
Q9: What if I have questions?
Reach out to Ashley! ashleyh@unchartedlearning.org
