Idea Leap Finalists & Pitch Competitions

Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union (TVFCU) has announced the finalists for its 9th Annual Idea Leap Grant, with $225,000 in funding set to be awarded to small business owners across Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia. The program continues to spotlight innovative startups and growing businesses while investing directly in the region’s economic development.

“Our Idea Leap program has invested nearly $1 million in grants and scholarships since its launch in 2018, supporting dozens of outstanding small businesses across our region,” said Ryan Henn, vice president of business and commercial services. “After this year’s competition, we will surpass that $1 million milestone, and we’re excited to see what’s next as we continue to invest in the success of local entrepreneurs.”

This year’s competition will feature three regional pitch events. The Northwest Georgia and Ocoee competitions will air on Local 3 News, offering broader visibility for participating businesses, while the Chattanooga regional event will take place live at The Signal.

Leading up to the Chattanooga Pitch Competition, Chambliss will host the Chambliss Startup Social, a pre-event reception designed to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders for an evening of networking, music, food, and drinks.

Each regional competition will award a grand prize of $30,000, and all finalists will walk home with at least $10,000.

2026 Idea Leap Grant Events Include:

Northwest Georgia Region Airing:

• Date: Monday, May 4
• Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Place: Local 3 News

Ocoee Region Airing:

• Date: Tuesday, May 5
• Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Place: On Local 3 News

Chattanooga Pitch Night:

Chambliss Startup Social

• Date: Thursday, May 7
• Time: 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
• Place: The Signal, 21 Choo Choo Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37402

Chambliss will provide food and drinks in a lively atmosphere with music and networking.

Chattanooga Pitch Competition

• Date: Thursday, May 7
• Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
• Place: The Signal, 21 Choo Choo Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37402
• RSVP Here

For more information about the Idea Leap Grant, please visit tvfcu.com/IdeaLeap