UpPrize 2025 Launch

The UpPrize Social Innovation Challenge, powered by Innovation Works and funded by BNY, fosters partnerships across sectors to address our community's most critical issues. This competition aims to nurture ideas and solutions, helping social entrepreneurs reach their full potential at every stage of development.

• Where: The Assembly,5051 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
• When: May 8 at 6 p.m.

NEW FOR 2025: Two-Track Support System

This year's challenge introduces an innovative two-track structure designed to support social entrepreneurs at different stages of their journey:

• Early-Stage Track: For emerging ventures with promising ideas
• Advanced-Stage Track: For established ventures ready to scale their impact

Social entrepreneurs will compete for significant non-dilutive funding and comprehensive business support. Four finalists (two from each track) will be awarded prizes totaling $300,000, with awards distributed as follows:

Early Stage Track:

• First Place: $60,000
• Second Place: $40,000

Advanced Stage Track:

• First Place: $125,000
• Second Place: $75,000

Additionally, all finalists will join the UpPrize Masterclass series beginning in January 2026, focused on customer discovery and business growth. They will also gain access to Innovation Works' extensive network of resources, events, and ongoing technical assistance to maximize their social impact throughout southwestern Pennsylvania.

Join us for this exciting launch event to learn more about the challenge, eligibility requirements, and how to apply!

Also check out other Business events in Pittsburgh.