Showcase bold initiatives that future-proof clubs through environmental stewardship. Entries should highlight innovative approaches to energy efficiency, waste reduction, water conservation, regenerative landscaping, or other sustainable practices that position clubs as leaders in responsible, eco-friendly operations for years to come.
Shark Tank Competition
Whether you're a dynamic duo or a group of up to five, the Student Shark Tank Competition is calling all innovative student teams! Have you and your teammates developed a game-changing product, software, or solution that could revolutionize the club industry? Here is your chance to step into the spotlight, command the room, and pitch your vision directly to industry leaders for a shot at the grand prize.
Important Note: Please do not submit to the Shark Tank Competition if your team does not plan on attending the World Conference in person. If you are looking for an opportunity that does not require in-person attendance, please submit your concept to our Student and Faculty Idea Fair instead!
Submission Deadline: Wednesday, January 6, 2027, at 12:00 noon ET
Live Final Round: Monday, February 8, 2027, 4:15–5:15 p.m. CT
Rounds & Categories
Competition Rounds
- Round One: KKick off your journey by filling out the entry form, submitting a 90 second pitch video, and uploading a high-resolution PDF poster/advertisement showcasing your idea. (For Shark Tank, please ensure you submit the high-res PDF poster so CMAA can print it for display during World Conference).
- Round Two: If selected, your team will present your idea to a panel of club managers (the Sharks) via a five-minute Zoom pitch.
- Round Three: All eyes turn to Chicago, IL, where the competition reaches its ultimate highlight live at the World Conference & Club Business Expo! Finalist teams will give a live seven-minute presentation in front of the Sharks and a live CMAA audience. Virtual presentations are not permitted for this round.
Categories
1. Future-Ready Sustainability
2. The Modern Member Experience
As member demographics shift toward younger families, wellness-focused lifestyle trends, and tech-native generations, today's private clubs must continuously evolve. This category challenges students to redesign the member journey. Pitch modern amenity concepts, novel lifestyle or family programming, wellness initiatives, or tech-enhanced hospitality that elevates member satisfaction and drives long-term retention.
3. Culture Creators: The Next Century of Leadership
A club’s greatest asset is its people. This category challenges students to pitch programs, tools, or strategies that build exceptional workplace cultures where staff want to launch and build lasting careers. Entries should focus on strengthening talent pipelines, modernizing mentorship, improving employee well-being, employee experiences or creating recognition and development initiatives that position private clubs as employers of choice.
4. Centennial Innovators: The Future of CMAA
As CMAA celebrates 100 years of excellence, this category invites students to imagine what comes next for the broader profession and Association. Present bold, actionable ideas that will shape the future of CMAA through innovative educational delivery, student engagement strategies, or high-level industry leadership platforms.
Some of the best ideas don't fit neatly into a category. This is the wildcard division for bold, unconventional concepts that challenge traditional thinking in club management. Whether it's a disruptive technology, unexpected partnership, creative business model, or moonshot idea, this is your opportunity to think beyond today's limits and redefine what's possible.
Judging Criteria & Awards
Round One: Video & PDF Poster
- Video length must be 90 seconds or less (points deducted for exceeding time).
- A minimum of two team members must present on camera; all group members must be visible and acknowledged.
- All participants must submit a high-resolution PDF poster/advertisement.
- Professional attire is required.
- Submission must demonstrate thorough preparation, originality, and applicability to the club industry.
Round Two: Virtual Pitch
- Presentation time is strictly five minutes or less (points deducted for exceeding time).
- All team members must be present on Zoom and actively contribute to the presentation.
- Professional attire is required.
- Presentation must demonstrate thorough preparation, innovation, and relevance to the club industry.
Round Three: Live World Conference Pitch
- Presentation time is strictly seven minutes or less (points deducted for exceeding time).
- All team members must be present in person in Chicago, IL, and every member must have a speaking role.
- Professional dress attire is required.
- Pitch must reflect thorough rehearsal, high innovation, and practical club industry application.
Awards
- First Place = $1,000 Visa Gift Card
- Second & Third Place = $500 Visa Gift Card