Showcase bold initiatives that future-proof clubs through environmental stewardship. Entries should highlight cutting-edge practices in energy efficiency, zero-waste operations, water conservation, or regenerative landscaping that position clubs as leaders in sustainability for years to come.
Shark Tank Competition
The Student Shark Tank Competition gives CMAA students the chance to showcase their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit for a shot at the $1,000 grand prize! From crafting a one-minute pitch video to presenting live on stage at CMAA’s World Conference & Club Business Expo, participants will have the opportunity to impress a panel of club management “Sharks” with their product, software, or concept. This is your moment to dive in, make waves, and bring your innovative vision to life!
All submissions are due by 12:00 noon ET, Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
Rounds & Categories
Rounds
Here’s how it works:
- Round One: Kick off your journey by filling out the entry form and submitting a one-minute video that gives CMAA a sneak peek of your idea. [NEW] Please provide a high-resolution PDF poster/advertisement showcasing your idea. CMAA will print these for display at various events during the World Conference. For inspiration, check out a few episodes of Shark Tank to perfect your pitch!
- Round Two: If you make the cut, you'll present your idea to a panel of club managers (the Sharks) via a five-minute pitch.
- Round Three: The excitement culminates at the World Conference & Club Business Expo in Anaheim, CA! If selected, you’ll take the stage for a live five-minute presentation in front of the “Sharks” and a live CMAA audience. Remember, you must attend the 2026 World Conference to compete in this round—sorry, virtual presentations are not allowed.
Get ready to make waves in the club industry! Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to turn your vision into reality!
Categories
1. Future-Ready Sustainability
Celebrate innovative programs that reimagine what membership means. Think experiential design, hyper-personalized services, flexible membership models, or creative programming that attracts new demographics and keeps members engaged in fresh, meaningful ways.
3. Smart Technology & Digital Transformation
Highlight tech-forward solutions that transform the club experience. Submissions may include member-facing digital platforms, data-driven decision-making, virtual/hybrid event offerings, or integrated tech ecosystems that make clubs smarter, faster, and more connected.
Focus on visionary approaches to building the club’s future talent pipeline. This includes cutting-edge recruitment, immersive onboarding and training, and culture-driven programs that ensure every staff member thrives and is prepared for long-term success in an evolving industry.
Celebrate forward-looking efforts that position clubs as community and industry leaders. Examples include philanthropic initiatives, partnerships with schools and universities, thought-leadership programs, or sustainability projects that contribute to a better world and elevate the club’s reputation.
Unleash your most daring and unconventional ideas, no box required. This category celebrates groundbreaking concepts that don’t fit neatly anywhere else but push the boundaries of what’s possible in club management. Whether it’s a bold experiment, a creative partnership, or a moonshot initiative, this is your chance to show how you are rewriting the rules and redefining the future.
Guidelines
Judging Criteria for Round One
- Videos must be no longer than one minute; points will be deducted for exceeding this time limit.
- If submitting as a group, a minimum of two members must present on the video—individual presentations by a single member are not permitted. All group members must be visible and acknowledged.
- The presentation should demonstrate thorough preparation and execution.
- All participants must be dressed in professional attire.
- The concept must exhibit originality and creativity.
- The idea should be relevant and applicable to the club industry.
Judging Criteria for Round Two
- Presentations must not exceed five minutes; points will be deducted for exceeding this time limit.
- For group entries, all members must be present via Zoom, and everyone must contribute to the presentation.
- The presentation should demonstrate thorough preparation and execution.
- All participants are required to dress in professional attire.
- The concept must be original and innovative.
- The idea should be relevant and applicable to the club industry.
Judging Criteria for Round Three
- Presentations must not exceed five minutes; points will be deducted for exceeding this time limit.
- For group entries, all members must be present at the World Conference, and each member is required to have a speaking role.
- The presentation should reflect thorough rehearsal and execution.
- All participants must adhere to professional dress standards.
- The concept must be original and innovative.
- The idea should be relevant and applicable to the club industry.
Award
- First Place = $1,000 Visa Gift Card
- Second & Third Place = $500 Visa Gift Card