The countdown begins | One week until the application deadline for PYA’s Ballard Innovation Award!
The first place winner of the 2026 Ballard Innovation Award will receive $50,000 in cash and in-kind serves to propel their venture forward. Applications are due March 18.
There is exactly one week left to apply for the annual PYA Ballard Innovation Award. The firm is seeking strong, scalable pre-seed to seed-stage startups located in the East Tennessee region to apply for a position in the 2026 pitch competition and awards reception.
Over the past five years, PYA has awarded $325,000 to East Tennessee startups through the firm’s Ballard Innovation Award. Previous winners have gone on to close major fundraising rounds, experience life-changing exits, and some have scaled 10x.
Applications will close on March 18 at 11:59 p.m.
Who should apply to the Ballard Innovation Award?
It is open to any early-stage company in the East Tennessee area that has established a proof of concept with accompanying revenue and financial resources of at least $200,000; a business plan to optimize business operations; evidence of an innovative spirit; and a vision to empower the consumer.
How do the awards work?
The five founders selected to pitch at the 2026 Ballard Innovation Award will be invited to a private event on the evening of April 22. The selected participants will have the unique opportunity to pitch their business to a hundred of East Tennessee’s premier business executives, investors, bankers, and change-makers.
As in years past, there will be three tiers for the awards.
First place will receive a package of $50,000 worth of capital and in-kind services from PYA. Second place will receive $10,000 worth of in-kind professional services, and third place will receive $5,000 worth of services. PYA is also introducing the inaugural Executive’s Choice Award, which will be voted upon and selected by the distinguished group of business leaders in attendance. The award will recognize the emerging startup that most impresses regional executive decision makers.
Apply to the 2026 PYA Ballard Innovation Award today.
Learn more about PYA Accountants & Advisors.
🎥 Video from the 2025 Ballard Innovation Award.
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