City of Fort Worth launches 2026 business plan competition to support small business owners
Fort Worth, Texas – Small business owners across Fort Worth are being encouraged to apply for the city’s 2026 Business Plan Competition, a program designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their companies while competing for thousands of dollars in cash prizes.
City officials announced that applications are now open for the Fort Worth Business Plan Competition, an annual initiative sponsored by Frost Bank that focuses on helping local businesses build long-term success through planning, mentorship, and professional development.
The competition has become one of several efforts supported by the City of Fort Worth to assist entrepreneurs as they grow their businesses and create jobs within the community.
Officials noted that research consistently shows businesses operating with structured written plans are often better positioned to increase revenue, attract investors, and secure outside funding opportunities.
Participants selected for the program will spend several weeks attending workshops and receiving coaching designed to help them fully understand and strengthen their business operations.
The training will guide entrepreneurs through the creation of detailed business plans covering major topics such as financial forecasting, market competition, growth strategies, and operational planning.
Finalists Will Compete for $20,000 in Cash Prizes
After completing the development process, participants will eventually present their businesses during a final “Pitch Night” competition before a panel of judges.
A total of $20,000 in prize money will be awarded to the top finalists.
According to city officials, the first-place winner will receive $10,000, while second place will earn $6,000 and third place will receive $4,000.
Applications for the competition are currently available through the City of Fort Worth website and will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, June 13.
To qualify, businesses must meet several eligibility requirements.
Applicants must have operated their businesses for at least two years but no more than five years. Businesses must also maintain a physical address within Fort Worth city limits and generate less than $1 million in annual revenue.
City officials stated that businesses failing to meet those requirements will not be eligible to participate.
Applicants are also required to submit documentation verifying their business status as part of the online application process.
Acceptable documents include DBA filings, certifications from the Secretary of State’s office, or other official legal business records.
Workshops and Coaching Will Prepare Entrepreneurs
Once applications close, officials will select the Top 20 businesses to continue in the program.
Those selected participants will be announced in late June.
The Top 20 entrepreneurs will then participate in professional development workshops led by Frost Bank and several business support organizations partnering with the city.
This year’s workshop partners include TechFW, Accelerate Fort Worth, the Small Business Administration, and other organizations focused on helping entrepreneurs grow sustainable companies.
Officials said the training sessions are intended to give small-business owners practical tools and guidance that can improve long-term business performance.
Final business plans are scheduled to be submitted by Sunday, Aug. 16.
From there, the Top 8 contestants will advance to the competition finale scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 15.
During the final Pitch Night, entrepreneurs will present their completed business strategies before judges while competing for the cash prizes.
City leaders say the competition continues highlighting the importance of small businesses to Fort Worth’s economy while helping entrepreneurs gain the planning experience and support needed to succeed in a highly competitive business environment.
Officials also hope the program encourages more local businesses to invest in structured growth strategies that can strengthen the city’s economy and create additional employment opportunities throughout the region.
