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The Drive, a business pitch competition presented by Inventrek Technology Park, will return in 2026 and once again award $10,000 in seed money to a local entrepreneur or small business owner.
An initiative of the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance, The Drive is open to startups and existing small businesses located in Howard County. The competition is designed for entrepreneurs who are ready to take a next step — whether that means launching a new idea or growing an established business.
Ideal applicants include business owners planning to expand their space, add a new product or service, invest in equipment or marketing, or reach new customers or markets. The Drive is especially well-suited for small business owners who have been building toward growth but need focused guidance, feedback, and capital to move forward with confidence. Businesses with 100 or fewer employees are eligible to participate.
New in 2026, the Alliance has restructured The Drive into a six-month process, down from the previous 10-month timeline. The change is designed to better accommodate the busy schedules of entrepreneurs and small business owners while maintaining the hands-on support that has defined the competition.
“The feedback we’ve received over the years is that the opportunity is exciting, but the time commitment felt overwhelming for some business owners,” said Lori Dukes, Alliance president and CEO. “By shortening the timeline, we’re making The Drive more accessible while still providing meaningful guidance and resources to participants.”
Through an application and review process, finalists will be selected to move forward in the competition. Those finalists will work closely with Alliance staff to strengthen their business plans and refine their pitches in advance of the final event.
The competition will culminate in a “Shark Tank”-style pitch event on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. Finalists will present their businesses to a panel of judges in front of a live audience. The event is free and open to the public.
Applications to compete must be submitted in advance. Entry forms and additional details are now available at greaterkokomo.com/thedrive. The deadline to apply is March 31.
Since its inaugural competition in 2019, The Drive has evolved to maximize its impact. While early competitions awarded prize money to multiple participants, the $10,000 prize is now awarded to a single winner to provide stronger support for business growth.
“Seeing how that seed money has helped past winners grow and move their businesses forward is what keeps us excited about this event,” Dukes said. “The Drive gives entrepreneurs the chance to clarify their vision, gain valuable feedback, and take the next step with confidence.”
The 2026 Drive competition is sponsored by CPS Midwest.