How DTC 2026 Unfolds
From application to awards — a structured journey from idea to impact, powered by design thinking methodology.
Application & Selection
Applications open nationwide and globally. Screening for creativity, feasibility, and social impact. Bootcamp participants selected: 200 teams.
Virtual Bootcamp
Week-long online sessions. Mentorship from experts. Teams refine ideas and prepare for physical bootcamp.
Physical Bootcamp
Held in a partner's state or location. Hands-on workshops, testing prototypes, and pitch practice.
Demo Day & Judging
Teams present solutions to judges. Judging uses the DTC Pentagonal Innovation Framework. Seed funding awarded to winning solutions.
Awards & Next Steps
Winners announced at the Awards Ceremony. Access to the Innovators-in-Residence program for 6 months of incubation and acceleration. Continued mentorship, funding opportunities, and exposure.
Innovators in Residence Program
A 6-month incubator and accelerator program for winners and finalists to build their solutions for scale.
Phase 1: 3 Months Incubator
Find problem-solution fit & build a credible business case. Focus on building proof points around the venture.
Phase 2: 3 Months Accelerator
Work with corporate partners, mentors, and investors to build customer traction and prepare for funding.
