CLEMSON, S.C. — Clemson University will host its inaugural Military & Veterans Pitch Competition on October 31, 2025, honoring the University’s historic military roots while celebrating innovation and entrepreneurship among service members and their families.
Thanks to the generosity of Frank and Jennifer Blake, both members of the Class of 2000, $30,000 in total prize money will be awarded to five winning teams composed of active-duty members, ROTC students, National Guard members, veterans, military spouses and Gold Star children. The competition is made possible through the Brook T. Smith Launchpad, part of Clemson’s growing ecosystem for student and alumni entrepreneurs.
Frank Blake, a Clemson ROTC alumnus and Bronze Star recipient, brings decades of experience in corporate leadership and venture investment. Now serving as vice president at The Home Depot, Blake has been deeply involved in the global startup community as a founder, investor and mentor. His family’s support for this new initiative aims to inspire and empower the next generation of military-connected entrepreneurs.
Applications for the pitch competition will be accepted through October 11, 2026. A preliminary panel of veteran investors and business leaders will select ten finalists to compete in a live pitch event from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, October 31, 2026, at the Brook T. Smith Launchpad, 390 College Avenue, Clemson, South Carolina.
The competition is open to the public and aims to highlight Clemson’s ongoing commitment to service, leadership and innovation — values that have defined the University since its founding as a military school in 1889.
For more information, to apply, or to RSVP as an attendee, visit the Blake Family Military & Veterans Pitch Competition website or email launchpadcompetition@clemson.edu.
