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.
- 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!