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Transforming Today’s Students into Tomorrow’s Leaders
Pitch for Impact is a dynamic, Shark Tank–themed high school business competition designed to inspire innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial thinking. This exciting event invites teams of up to four students to step into the spotlight and present their best business idea to a panel of industry experts, innovators, and academic leaders.
Hosted by Southern Cross University, Pitch for Impact gives students the chance to showcase their problem‑solving abilities and pitch a product or service that creates real-world value. Whether it’s a bold new invention, a fresh take on an existing idea, or a socially driven enterprise, teams will need to convince the judges that their concept has the potential to make a meaningful impact.
Throughout the event, students will experience the thrill of strategic pitching, rapid-fire questioning, and the challenge of articulating their vision under pressure, just like the entrepreneurs on Shark Tank. Judges will evaluate pitches based on creativity, feasibility, market understanding, and the potential for positive change.
An incredible opportunity is at stake!
A Business Scholarship to Southern Cross University, awarded to the team whose pitch rises above the rest.
Pitch for Impact is more than a competition, it's a launchpad for tomorrow’s innovators. Are you ready to bring your idea to life, stand before the sharks, and claim your place as the next big entrepreneur?
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Entry Requirements
- Each team may include up to 4 high school students.
- Teams must submit one business concept focused on creating meaningful impact.
- Students all must be enrolled in high school at the time of the event.
Each team must prepare:
Business Pitch (Live Presentation)
- 8-10 minute pitch to a judging panel.
- 5 minutes of Q&A with judges.
Each team must prepare:
Written Concept Summary
- One-page overview including:
- Problem statement
- Solution overview
- Target audience
- Feasibility & impact
- Sustainability considerations
Mock-ups, demo models, or storyboards encouraged but not required
Event Rules
Rule 1: Original Work
All ideas must be the team’s own work. External guidance is allowed, but teams must acknowledge any support. (Aligned with academic integrity principles—SCU emphasises honesty, responsibility and ethical behaviour.)
Rule 2: Real-world Relevance
Your concept must address a real problem, reflecting SCU’s commitment to research with real impact, sustainability, and community-focused innovation.
Rule 3: Ethical & Sustainable Thinking
Submissions must consider ethics, sustainability, and social impact—mirroring SCU’s values of care and respect for our planet, and SCU Business learning outcomes related to ethical frameworks.
Rule 4: Team Collaboration
Teams must collaborate and demonstrate shared responsibility—reflecting SCU’s emphasis on teamwork, communication, and leadership in Business studies.
Rule 5: Professional Conduct
Students must behave respectfully and professionally throughout the competition, reflecting SCU’s values of excellence and trust through action.
Judges will evaluate pitches using a scoring model aligned with the Bachelor of Business graduate capabilities and SCU’s values.
Innovation & Bold Thinking
- Does the idea demonstrate bold, dynamic, creative thinking?
- Is it original or a fresh take on an existing idea?
Reflects SCU values of boldness and innovation.
Problem Understanding & Critical Analysis
- Clear explanation of the problem and its significance.
- Demonstrates critical thinking consistent with Business program learning outcomes.
Feasibility & Practical Application
- Is the concept realistic and achievable?
- Does the idea apply practical business skills and real-world thinking?
(Aligned with SCU’s emphasis on practical skill-building and real-world interaction.)
Ethical, Social & Environmental Impact
- Does the pitch consider sustainability?
- Does it show ethical decision-making and positive social contribution?
Reflects SCU values of care, respect for planet, and Business outcomes for applying ethical frameworks.
Communication & Presentation
- Clarity, confidence, structure, and persuasiveness.
- Ability to respond effectively to judge questions.
Supports Business learning outcomes related to written and oral communication.
Teamwork & Leadership
- Evidence of collaboration and shared contribution.
- Leadership qualities and professionalism.
Aligned with SCU’s emphasis on leadership, autonomy, and accountability.
Meet the judges
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Jane Laverty
Regional Director, Business NSW Northern Rivers
Jane is the Regional Director for Business NSW in the Northern Rivers, with nearly 20 years’ experience supporting local businesses and communities. She specialises in turning ideas into action and has worked on major projects with councils, businesses, and community groups across the region. Jane is passionate about helping the next generation bring their ideas to life and is excited to be part of this challenge.
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Daniel Morrow
Director, Thomas Noble & Russell
Daniel has over 20 years’ experience in accounting and taxation, working with clients across the Northern Rivers and NSW. He began his career with TNR in 2006 and is a member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand. Daniel specialises in providing practical advice on tax, including income tax, GST, and FBT. He is passionate about helping businesses make smart financial decisions and grow with confidence.
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Pamela Brook
Co-Founder, Brookfarm + Cape Byron Distillery
Pamela is an experienced business leader, regenerative farmer, and author focused on sustainable food systems and regional development. She has co-founded successful Australian brands and continues to support the growth of the local food industry. Through her work with Coolamon Community, Pamela is dedicated to supporting Aboriginal mothers and babies at the very start of life.
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Professor Michael Ewing
Executive Dean, Southern Cross University
Professor Michael Ewing is the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Business, Law and Arts at Southern Cross University. He brings extensive experience across higher education, research, and industry collaboration. Michael has published widely in marketing and consumer behaviour and is passionate about connecting students with real-world opportunities. He is committed to supporting the next generation of leaders and is excited to be part of this challenge.
Award & Recognition
The top-performing team will receive:
A SCU Business Scholarship for each team member
“Awarded to the team whose pitch best embodies SCU’s values of excellence, boldness, care, and innovation. Business program capabilities including critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and practical problem‑solving.”