A Michigan State University startup took top honors at this year’s Rice Business Plan Competition, leading a group of winning teams that collectively secured over $1.4 million in investment and cash awards.
The annual event brought together 42 university-affiliated startups to pitch in front of hundreds of investors, with seven finalists emerging after multiple rounds of evaluation. Winners represented a mix of sectors and universities, highlighting the continued depth of venture-ready innovation coming out of academic ecosystems.
Full breakdown of winners and awards in the article.
Source: Rice Business Plan Competition 2026 winners announced – InnovationMap
