Thrown to the Wolves

Presented by the Delta Center for Economic Development and Kays Foundation Scarlet to Black.

Inspired by the popular television series Shark Tank, Thrown to the Wolves gives high school students the opportunity to develop innovative ideas, work alongside mentors, and compete for scholarships, prizes, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Open to Arkansas high school students in grades 10–12.
Teams may consist of 1–3 students.

Registration opens August 2026. Check back soon for the application!

Participation Guide

Cash Prizes

Compete for prize money for both students and schools.

College Scholarships

Winning teams receive scholarship opportunities from Arkansas State University.

Mentorship

Work directly with faculty, business leaders, and community mentors.

Real Startup Experience

Develop a business concept, business plan inclusive of marketing plan, prototype, and final pitch presentation.

Innovation Workspace

Winning teams receive a 1-year membership to the A-State Innovate Garage.

Marketing & Patent Support

First place team receives assistance with branding, marketing, and prototype development.

Thrown to the Wolves is a high school entrepreneurship and innovation competition hosted by Arkansas State University’s Delta Center for Economic Development and Kay's Foundation Scarlet to Black.

Students create and develop an original idea for a product, service, or business and present it during a live pitch competition inspired by Shark Tank.

Throughout the program, participants work with mentors to strengthen their concept, improve presentation skills, and prepare a business plan. The competition is designed to encourage creativity, collaboration, leadership, communication, and entrepreneurial thinking.

TTTW Student winners posing with their trophies.

Registration

September 1 – October 30, 2026

Students and teams register to compete.

Mentor Pairing

November 2026

Teams are paired with mentors from the university and business community.

Idea Development

December 2026 – January 2027

Refine your idea, visual aid, business plan, and prototype.

Submit Materials

February 5, 2027

Submit presentation visual aid and business plan.

Competition Day

February 24, 2027

Showcase your idea live at Arkansas State University.

High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Teams of 1–3 students
Multiple teams per school are allowed
Students interested in entrepreneurship, innovation, technology, design, or business are encouraged to apply

Ready to Pitch Your Idea?

Take your idea from concept to competition with guidance from mentors, university faculty, and business professionals.

Registration opens August 2026. Check back soon for more details!

Participation Guide

Thrown to the Wolves connects students with mentors, educators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to inspire the next generation of innovators.

Sponsors and partners help provide:

Student scholarships
Competition prizes
Mentorship opportunities
Startup resources
Innovation programming

Become a Sponsor View Sponsorship Guide

Is there a fee for registering?

No. Registration is completely free.

Can students compete individually?

Yes. Teams may include 1–3 students.

Do students need a finished business?

No. Students only need an idea or concept of the business.

Is a physical prototype required for the competition?

No. A working prototype is a great addition if applicable, but not required or necessary.

Where is the competition hosted?

Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

Information For

Thrown to the Wolves

Arkansas State University High School Innovation Competition

Why Participate?