FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Square1 Announces 2026 NEXT Innovation Summit and Final Pitch Event
CRESTVIEW HILLS, Ky. – Square1 will host its annual NEXT Innovation Summit and Final Pitch Event on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Thomas More University. The yearly pitch competition provides local high school students with the opportunity to share their innovations, learn from industry experts, and network with local professionals — all while competing for significant scholarships and cash prizes.
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NEXT Final Pitch Event Highlights
The NEXT Innovation Summit will bring together students from across the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati region to showcase their entrepreneurial ideas through a full day of learning, networking, and competition.
The day will begin with nearly a dozen industry experts and entrepreneurs sharing insights and real-world advice with students, offering guidance on leadership, innovation, resilience, and business growth.
Following the morning sessions, students will participate in an interactive networking competition, connecting with the featured speakers as well as dozens of additional business and community leaders. The contest is designed to challenge students to expand their personal networks, practice professional communication skills, and build meaningful relationships that extend beyond the classroom.
In the afternoon, students will take the stage to compete for prizes, including a $ 35,000-per-year, four-year scholarship to Thomas More University, as well as additional scholarship awards and cash prizes.
Additionally, a half dozen students who are already operating active businesses will present to a panel of startup experts. These young entrepreneurs will seek strategic guidance and compete for funding to help accelerate the growth of their ventures — gaining direct feedback from experienced founders and investors.
Community members, educators, business leaders, and families are invited to attend and support the region’s next generation of innovators.
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Speaking to NEXT’s Impact
“The Greater Cincinnati region has embraced entrepreneurship as a critical component to our region’s success,” said Square1 CEO Keith Schneider. “We are thrilled to be at the forefront of this ecosystem, fostering an innovative spirit in more than 1,000 students annually. The Innovation Summit is a celebration of the creativity, determination, and problem-solving ability of our students.”
Offering full- and partial-tuition scholarships to Thomas More University as part of the Innovation Summit allows Square1 to support young entrepreneurs in furthering their education and turning their ideas into reality.
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Community Support
The event is made possible with the continued support of U.S. Bank, which plays a pivotal role in providing NEXT students with access to mentorships, financial literacy guidance, and business expertise. The United Way of Greater Cincinnati and the Millstone Foundation joined a growing list of supporters in 2025.
Additionally, Blue North, a Northern Kentucky nonprofit supporting local entrepreneurs, provides co-working space access to NEXT finalists, ensuring students have professional environments to continue developing their ventures beyond the competition.
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Event Details
What: NEXT Final Pitch Event
When: Thursday, March 12, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Where: Thomas More University, Crestview Hills, Kentucky
Who: High school student entrepreneurs from Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati
Admission: Register at https://square1next.org/next/attend/
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Looking Forward
Square1 remains committed to expanding the NEXT program during the 2025–2026 school year, increasing opportunities for students to develop entrepreneurial mindsets, strengthen academic foundations, and build the networks and resources needed to become the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.
For more information about Square1 and its programs, visit https://square1next.org/.
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Media Contact:
Keith Schneider
CEO, Square1
keith@square1next.org
(859) 750.2013
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