1.1. Participants must be 18 years or older at the time of entry.
1.2. The Competition is open to individuals or teams with a creative business idea, product, or service.
1.3. The business or concept must align with the goals of ChocolateCON to uplift African American communities and promote innovation.

2.1. All entries must be submitted via the official registration form by the stated deadline.
2.2. Submissions must include all required materials, including but not limited to a business description, pitch deck, or video submission (if applicable).
2.3. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.

3.1. Limited slots will be available for individuals who arrive on the day of the event and wish to pitch without pre-registration.
3.2. Day-of participants will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is no guarantee of being allowed to pitch without pre-registration.
3.3. All day-of participants must check in with event organizers and provide a brief description of their pitch idea to be considered for an available slot.

Item 4.1. Selected participants must present their pitch in person on April 19, 2025, during the Competition at ChocolateCON.
4.2. Each pitch will be limited to a specified time (e.g., 5–7 minutes) followed by a Q&A session with the judges.

5.1. Pitches will be evaluated based on creativity, feasibility, community impact, and presentation quality.
5.2. The decision of the judges is final and binding.

6.1. Winners will receive funding or other specified prizes to support their business or idea.
6.2. To receive the prize via ACH, the winning business must provide proof of a verified business banking account.
6.3. Prizes are non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash.

7.1. By entering the Competition, participants agree to allow ChocolateCON to use their name, business information, and presentation materials for promotional purposes.
7.2. Intellectual property rights for submitted ideas remain with the participants.

8.1. Participants must confirm their availability for the live event and be responsible for their travel and accommodations, if necessary.
8.2. Failure to attend the event may result in disqualification.

9.1. Participants must conduct themselves professionally and respectfully toward all attendees, judges, and organizers.
9.2. Disruptive or inappropriate behavior may result in disqualification.

10.1. ChocolateCON reserves the right to modify, postpone, or cancel the Competition at any time.
10.2. ChocolateCON is not responsible for any technical issues, data loss, or other unforeseen problems that may arise during the submission or presentation process.

11.1. By entering the Competition, participants confirm that they have read and agree to these terms and conditions.