Pitch Slam 2026

Applications to Naturally MN Rising Pitch Slam are open until March 13th.

Naturally Rising MN is the premier event of the year to celebrate our region’s up-and-coming brands with a community gathering and pitch competition. Whether it’s to showcase your talents or to keep your finger on the pulse of the hottest industry trends, NMN Rising is the place you want to be!

Formerly known as Pitch Slam, Naturally Rising has evolved into a competition that not only showcases emerging, purpose-driven brands but also celebrates leaders in the conscious business industry. This event highlights companies that embrace Naturally Network's quintuple bottom line - the 5 Ps:

1. Passion – The enthusiasm and dedication of founders toward their product and mission

2. Purpose – The company’s mission and the impact it has in addressing a specific issue or need

3. People – The company’s focus on community, customer, and team dynamics

4. Planet – The company’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility

5. Prosperity – The company’s ability to achieve financial success and market viability while maintaining ethical practices

Naturally Rising places a strong emphasis on retail readiness, ensuring that the businesses competing are not only purpose-driven but also prepared for growth and success in the marketplace. From regional competitions to the national stage, culminating in a pitch experience at Newtopia Now—a show known for supporting emerging brands—this competition is designed to help elevate companies that can thrive in today’s conscious economy.

Applications close on March 13th. Finalists will compete on May 7th, delivering their retail-ready, conscious business pitches to a distinguished panel of judges and a live audience. The winner will earn a coveted booth at Newtopia Now, access to invaluable mentors and retailers, and a direct path into Naturally Network’s national competition. This evolution of the competition underscores our commitment to owning the brand and the marketplace, offering the platform, resources, and connections to help these businesses succeed while honoring their values.

2026 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
- Brand must be a natural, mission-driven CPG brand
- Business must be headquartered in Minnesota
- Must have a website and social channels, and be able to provide liability insurance
- Business can ship samples to selection committee in late April
- Brand founder available to prep before event and pitch LIVE on May 7th in Minneapolis.