Pirate Entrepreneurship Challenge

Fill out an ApplicationLast day to register is October, 15

---

---

You see opportunities. You have ideas that could make an impact. And, you’re smart enough to know that you can’t do it all by yourself. At the Miller School of Entrepreneurship, we can start you on your entrepreneurial journey with the Pirate Entrepreneurship Challenge.

The Pirate Entrepreneurship Challenge (PEC) is the Miller School’s signature business pitch competition. It’s open to all entrepreneurship teams that have at least one enrolled ECU student.

Since 2018 the Pirate Challenge has awarded more than $800,000 in cash and prizes making the PEC the richest entrepreneurship pitch competition in North Carolina.

This year’s PEC features more than $150,000 in cash and prizes!

Round 1:

Date/Time: Oct. 22, 2024, 12 – 2 p.m. (Rain Date 10/22)
Location: ECU main campus mall

Round 2:

Date/Time: Feb. 4, 2025, 6 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: TBD

Round 3:

Date/Time: April 15, 2025, 6 – 8:30 pm.
Location: TBD

Classes for PEC Registrants & Open to All ECU Students  (via WebEx) 

Persistence and Resilience
Dr. Joy Karriker and Mr. David Mayo teach theory and practice for becoming lifelong, successful entrepreneurs.
Recording Link: Persistence and Resilience Recording
Password: KnXxdb*2

Creating the Best Pitch Video
Mr. Rich Klindworth from ECU News Services teaches how to create the best 3-5 minute video for the PEC first round.
Recording Link: Creating the Best Pitch Video Recording
Password: Nbp4JQh$

Create a Clear and Compelling Elevator Pitch
Miller School Entrepreneurs-in-Residence teach how to create a 30-second elevator pitch to quickly communicate the business’s value to stakeholders.
Create a Clear and Compelling Elevator Pitch Slideshow (PDF)

Tips from the Winner’s Circle
Former PEC winners provide tips on how to win the Pirate Challenge.
Recording Link: Tips from the Winner’s Circle Recording
Password: jPhdgh7*