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The Pitch Deck 2027: Free Entries Close 1 December

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The Pitch Deck at Food Manufacture 360 closes on 1 December 2026. Check start-up eligibility and the requirement to pitch in person in Birmingham.

Last checked against official sources: 1 November 2026

* Dates and timings are subject to change, please check directly with the awards organisers.

Entries for The Pitch Deck at Food Manufacture 360 2027 close on 1 December 2026. Entry is free, and shortlisted companies attend the event free of charge. The competition gives innovative food and drink businesses the opportunity to pitch live to an industry judging panel.

Check Your Eligibility

The official entry page requires your business to be:

  • Independent, with fewer than 250 employees.
  • Founded within the last 10 years.
  • UK-based or actively trading in the UK.
  • Developing an innovative food, drink or ingredient product that is pre-launch or launched within the last 2 years.

The application asks finalists to confirm they can pitch in person on 9 February 2027 at Food Manufacture 360 in Birmingham. Check your availability before applying. The deadline text gives no closing time or timezone; confirm the cutoff with the organiser rather than relying on a last-day submission.

Build a Commercially Clear Story

The form asks what you are developing, who it serves, the customer need and supporting evidence, the market opportunity, how the business makes money, the difference the product could make and the team's experience and support needs. It also asks for a headshot or team shot, company logo and product shot.

Separate what you have already demonstrated from what you plan to test. Explain why customers would switch from their current solution and connect your route to market to evidence of demand. If the product is not yet launched, use relevant research or pilot findings rather than presenting forecasts as achieved results.

Set an internal review date before 1 December 2026 so your team can check the commercial figures, image permissions and availability for the live pitch.

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