Registration
The Veterans Business Battle is the nation’s largest pitch competition featuring top U.S. military veteran-led startups. We welcome all individuals—both veterans and non-veterans—with an interest in entrepreneurship and innovation.
Agenda
Wednesday, April 8 | Rice Innovation District
- 11:00 am - 12:30 pm · Lunch & Small Business Expo
- 12:30 - 2:30 pm · Entrepreneurship Educational Panels
- 2:30 - 3:30 pm · Startup Elevator Pitches
- 3:30 - 4:00 pm · Fireside Chat: Moonshots Capital & Mercury Fund
- 4:00 - 6:00 pm · Small Business Expo & Happy Hour
Thursday, April 9 | McNair Hall, Rice University
- 8:00 - 9:00 am · Breakfast
- 9:00 am - 12:00 pm · Startup Pitches
- 12:00 - 2:00 pm · Lunch & Pitch Fair
- 2:00 - 5:00 pm · Startup Pitches
- 6:00 - 8:00 pm · VIP Event: Keynote & Award Ceremony
Subject to change
Registration to Attend
Members of the public should register under the Professional affiliation unless they are affiliated with Rice, students, or are participating in the Small Business Expo.
Registration provides access to the full agenda above, except for the VIP event on Thursday.
Applications to compete in the pitch competition closed on January 31, 2026.
The Veterans Business Battle is a 100% student-run event, supported through third-party sponsorships and registration fees that help cover event costs and ensure a high-quality experience for all participants.