Impact on the Plains

Impact on the Plains is our community’s premier social innovation competition, modeled after the popular TV show “Shark Tank,” that pursues bold solutions to complex social issues.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 17, 2026
5 P.M. COCKTAILS • 6 P.M. PROGRAM
TEXTRON AVIATION ACTIVITY CENTER

PURCHASE TICKETS

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A group photo of the five Impact on the Plains judges from 2025, including three women and two men.

❯❯ THE PROCESS

APPLY

Nonprofits submit applications with their innovative approach to a complex social issue by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Learn more here!

REVIEW

Applications will be narrowed down to the top four proposals, which will be notified Monday, Aug. 31.

PITCH

Four finalists make their pitch to a “Shark Tank” panel of community leaders at a live, exclusive event on Thursday, Sept. 17. Secure your seat to cheer on the nonprofits! Purchase a table or individual tickets here.

A blue and yellow icon of an award ribbon.

GAME CHANGERS ANNOUNCED

The event culminates with the judges announcing the winner and runners-up at the conclusion of the event. A special People’s Choice Award is given to one finalist.

❯❯ 2025 WINNERS

FIRST PLACE: $40,000

Charitable Pharmacy

Provides lower-cost or free prescription medications to those without insurance to help them improve and maintain their health.

SECOND PLACE: $30,000
PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD: $5,000

Realidad U

Provides bilingual financial education through a hands-on experience that prepares students for real-life budget decisions adults navigate.

THIRD PLACE: $20,000

GO Project: CarePortal

Leverages an online platform to match the unique tangible needs of children and families with caring church communities to help stabilize households.

FOURTH PLACE: $10,000

Child Development Network

Expands access to affordable, high-quality early childhood education by removing financial and capacity barriers through a shared employer-employee cost model.