Dairy Snack Innovation Competition

Create the next viral snack, win a $10,000 scholarship

Calling all high school student entrepreneurs, food science enthusiasts, and future business leaders! Do you have what it takes to create the next must-have dairy snack?

Join the Dairy MAX Dairy Snack Innovation Competition and compete for a $10,000 scholarship while gaining invaluable mentorship and industry exposure.

Why Enter?

Scholarship & Prizes – Win up to $10,000 in scholarships and funding. The top five students will receive varying scholarship amounts, up to $10,000.
Mentorship & Training – Work with industry experts and food scientists.
Exclusive Opportunities – Travel to Colorado State University Spur Innovation Center for in-person mentorship and pitch your idea to expert judges.
Real-World Experience – Develop a product, create packaging, and market your idea like a pro!

Who Can Compete?

High school students (ages 14+) in Colorado, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Wyoming, Montana or Kansas.
Students who are passionate about food science, business or entrepreneurship.
Students who are ready to innovate with real dairy ingredients.

How It Works

Submit Your Idea – Develop a dairy-based snack concept that meets consumer demand for convenience, health and innovation.
Become a Finalist – Up to 5 finalists will be selected for a 9-month mentorship program, including virtual and in-person training.
Pitch Your Product – Travel to Denver, CO, to showcase your snack to industry experts and compete for top prizes.

Key Competition Dates

Application Deadline: September 19, 2025
Finalist Announcement: October 8, 2025
Mentorship Program: November 2025 – May 2026
Final Pitch Event: June 12-14, 2026

How to Apply

Email pitchcompetition@dairymax.org with any questions you may have.
Complete Your Entry on Submittable – Provide your product details, packaging ideas, and marketing concept.
Submit by September 19, 2025 – Don’t miss your chance to compete!

Your Innovation, Your Future

Turn your creativity into a winning dairy snack and take your entrepreneurial dreams to the next level. Apply today and be the future of food innovation!

Apply Now