Diamond Challenge

The Diamond Challenge is a global entrepreneurship competition for high school students, organized by Horn Entrepreneurship at the University of Delaware. Students work in teams to develop original business or social innovation concepts, learn about entrepreneurship, prepare a written concept narrative and pitch their idea. The competition has two main tracks: Business Innovation — solving a customer problem through a venture designed to generate revenue and profit; Social Innovation — solving a social or environmental problem and creating positive impact. Teams from around the world can participate. For the 2027 competition cycle, submissions open on September 16, with the initial submission deadline on January 14, 2027.

International entrepreneurship competition. Global student teams. Development of a real business/social venture. Entrepreneurial mindset. Problem and customer validation. Business-model development. Pitching and public-speaking skills. Expert feedback. International networking. Global pitch opportunities. Limitless World Summit. $100K+ overall prize pool. Up to $12,000 for first place. Additional topical prizes. Strong portfolio value for Business, Entrepreneurship, Economics, Innovation and Social Impact.

Teams must have 2–4 high-school students aged 14–18, plus one adult advisor aged 21+. The initial application consists of a 3–5 page written concept narrative and a 60-second introductory video, both submitted in English. No separate motivation essay or recommendation letter is required. There is no standard admissions interview.