YOU'RE INVITED

McCloskey New Venture Competition 

April 24, 2026
12:00 – 6:30 p.m.
DeBartolo Performing Arts Center (DPAC)

100 Performing Arts Center

Notre Dame, IN 46556 (map)

Notre Dame Research and the IDEA Center are pleased to invite you to attend the final round of the McCloskey New Venture Competition on Friday, April 24, 2026. The final events of the McCloskey New Venture Competition will include a Kickoff Rally, the Final Round presentations, and a closing reception.

Now in its 26th year, the McCloskey New Venture Competition is a key part of Notre Dame's innovation ecosystem, helping students test ideas, develop skills, and receive feedback from mentors, including investors and entrepreneurs, to launch and grow successful ventures.

This event is free and open to everyone. 

The McCloskey New Venture Competition is proud to announce that there are 16 semi-finalists for this year's competition. Representing a diverse range of talent, these teams include current students, distinguished alumni, and innovative community members. You can view the full list of finalists here or browse the teams below by clicking the button.

We are also excited to introduce the McCloskey Awards, a new initiative honoring the alumni and mentors who serve as the driving force behind Notre Dame’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Meet our inaugural awardees below.

12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Finals Kickoff Rally (Tent on Irish Green, behind DPAC)

 

2:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Finalist Presentations

 

3:30 - 4:00 p.m.

Fireside Chat

 

4:30 p.m.

Award Announcements & Closing Reception (Tent on Irish Green, behind DPAC)

Questions? Please email John Henry and Erin Kinzel