The City of Fort Worth has identified the top twenty submissions for its 2026 Business Plan Competition. The announcement was published on a city blog on Wednesday, marking the next phase for these emerging local enterprises. Fort Worth is located approximately 31 miles west of Dallas.
These twenty selected businesses will now engage in a series of business development workshops, mentorship sessions, and pitch preparation exercises. These activities are conducted in collaboration with local partners and Frost Bank, which serves as the competition sponsor. The program is designed to provide both a showcase and training ground for small businesses aiming for long-term viability.
Following the completion of the training period, the participants are required to develop comprehensive written business plans. These documents will be evaluated by judges, and the eight highest-scoring entries will advance to the final round. The top eight finalists will present their concepts to a judging panel on October 15.
Cash awards will be distributed to the three finalists who reach the final stage. The first-place winner will receive $10,000, second place will be awarded $6,000, and third place will receive $4,000.
The full list of the twenty advancing businesses includes a diverse range of services and products. Audrey’s Popcorn offers gourmet popcorn made with real ingredients. Articulate Your Value operates as a workforce development firm providing customized training. C. Collins Consulting Services assists truck drivers in scaling their operations. DMG Notaries provides document-signing services for real estate closings. EPIC Expeditions and Events focuses on luxury travel and event planning.
Other finalists include Fun on the Run Plus One, which aims to reduce social isolation through community engagement. Green Thistle Emporium sells refillable home and body products with a focus on sustainability. ICONIER Digital Marketing Agency helps businesses increase online visibility. Karriem’s Catering delivers Southern cuisine for various events. Market Match is a software platform for inventory and product decision-making.
