Program Overview

Baltimore Homecoming’s Crab Tank Entrepreneurship Program supports Baltimore-based businesses that are building the future of our city. Applicants compete for a $25,000 grand prize and a $2,500 people’s choice award, sponsored by M&T Bank.

In addition to funding, the program helps alleviate barriers to success by connecting winners with a powerful network of Baltimore leaders, entrepreneurs, and Baltimore Homecoming alumni committed to strengthening homegrown ventures.

A selection committee will select 10 semifinalists to move to a public vote. The top five entrepreneurs, chosen by the Baltimore community, will pitch live at Baltimore Homecoming’s signature event in the spring of 2027. 

Each finalist will have 3 minutes to pitch, with up to 2 minutes for Q&A. Presenters may use PowerPoint, video, or other visual aids. Winners will be announced during the signature event and attendance from all semifinalists is mandatory.

Business Eligibility Requirements:

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Headquartered in Baltimore City (proof of Baltimore address and proof of sales required)
• Revenue-generating (paying customers, sales history, or early investment)
• Founder is active, committed, and involved in day-to-day operations
• Business demonstrates scalability and growth potential in Baltimore
• Investable business model with a viable path to profitability
• Market validation or demonstrated demand
• Must commit to required meetings and deadlines from October 2026 – May 2027 (missing mandatory meetings may result in disqualification)
• Must be able to attend the in-person May 2027 Signature Event

Threshold Requirement — Applicants must also meet at least 3 of the following 4 criteria:

• $100K+ in annual revenue
• 3+ employees (or equivalent workforce)
• At least 2 years in operation
• Demonstrated year-over-year growth

Judging Criteria Judges will evaluate semifinalists and finalists based on:

• Problem & Solution: Clear problem definition and strength, relevance, and feasibility of the proposed solution.
• Market Opportunity & Business Model: Defined target market size, revenue model, scalability, and viability.
• Impact on Baltimore: The business's current and potential contributions to Baltimore's economic, social, or community landscape.
• Founder & Team Strength: Passion, credibility, skill, execution ability, and commitment.
• Pitch Delivery & Storytelling: Clarity, confidence, and ability to communicate vision effectively.
• Feasibility & Execution: Practical next steps, realistic implementation plan, operational soundness.

   

Application Instructions

Complete the form below to submit your application.
Applications are due Monday, June 29, 2026.

For questions, email robinson@baltimorehomecoming.com.

* Indicates a required field.