By Bill DeBaun, Senior Director, Data and Strategic Initiatives
Reading time: Two minutes
Do you have a promising practice that could help more Texas students transition successfully to college? If so, TxCANneeds your help! TxCAN is seeking scalable, high-impact college access strategies
to expand across the state. Submit your idea to their Second Annual TxCAN Pitch Competition!This year, the pitch competition
will take place during the Texas Association for College Admissions Counseling (TACAC) Conference,hosted in McAllen, TX, on April 12-14, 2026.
They’re seeking tactics to address two challenges:
What proven or promising approaches help students recognize how postsecondary education can empower them to pursue meaningful careers and achieve their big dreams for themselves, their families, and communities?
What proven interventions create clear, supportive pathways that help students consistently complete the steps needed for postsecondary education?
Pitch Competition Timeline:
October 15: Interest Form Closes
First Week of November: Application Invitation is Shared
January 8: Application Closes
End of January: Semi-Finalists Announced
Mid February: Virtual Semi-Finalist Round
March: Top 3 Finalists Announced
April 12-14: Top Three Finalists Present at TACAC, Winner announced
Prizes:
If your pitch is selected as a finalist, you will receive:
A trip to the TACAC conference in McAllen, TX - inclusive of Conference registration, hotel, flight, and a meal stipend for up to two presenters.
The opportunity to present in front of our network of college access leaders.
TxCAN will publicize your pitch through our newsletter and social media outlets.
The winner of the pitch competition will also win $5,000 to further their college access work. To be considered, please complete this short interest form by October 15.
Thank you for helping Texas find and elevate impactful college access strategies across the state!
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