See the Next Big Ideas in HR Tech Take the Stage

2026 HR Tech Pitchfest

 

 

 

Sponsored by:

CoAdvantage Prime Pay

Why the Pitchfest is Worth Watching

Your Fast Track to What’s Emerging

Think of Pitchfest as a fast-track market scan. In one sitting, you can discover emerging solutions, see which HR and workforce challenges startups are tackling and hear judges test the thinking, results and differentiation behind each pitch.

You may find a company worth watching, a solution worth exploring in the Expo or a new way to approach a challenge your organization is facing.

Meet the 2026 Pitchfest Contestants

Explore the 33 emerging companies competing at HR Tech 2026 and get an early look at the products, services and ideas they’re bringing to the stage.

Here's What's Up for Grabs

$40,000 in Cash Prizes

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$25,000.00       First Prize
$10,000.00       Second Prize
$5,000.00         Audience Choice

First-Place Bonus

Booth space

10' x 10' Exhibit Space at 2027 HR Tech 

Meet the 2026 Pitchfest Judges

Contestants face questions and feedback from a panel of HR technology experts who will evaluate the problem being solved, the strength of the solution, results, market opportunity, competitive advantages and the team behind it.

You Have a Say in Who Wins

2025 Pitchfest Winners

For the First and Second Prize competitions, judges’ scores will account for 70% of each contestant’s total score, with audience voting accounting for the remaining 30%. The two highest-scoring companies from each preliminary round will advance, creating a field of six finalists.

The $5,000.00 Audience Choice prize will be determined separately by audience vote.

Each preliminary round and the final round will feature a different panel of judges representing a range of HR technology backgrounds. J

Schedule

PRELIMINARY ROUNDS

Pitchfest Theater in the Expo Hall

Tuesday, October 20
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, October 21
9:15 - 10:15 a.m. and 5 - 6 p.m.

FINAL ROUND

Pitchfest Theater in the Expo Hall

Thursday, October 22
1 - 2 p.m.