Pepperdine Graziadio Business School Opens Applications for 2026 Most Fundable Companies® Competition

MALIBU, California — Pepperdine Graziadio Business School has officially opened applications for the 2026 Most Fundable Companies competition, inviting early-stage U.S.-based startups to apply by the deadline of May 15, 2026.

Now in its ninth year, the Most Fundable Companies (MFC) program evaluates startups using a proprietary methodology designed to mirror the diligence process of angel investors and venture capitalists. Since its launch in 2018, past winners have collectively raised more than $600 million in capital following their participation in the program.

“The Most Fundable Companies program is designed to assess readiness for funding in a rigorous and practical way,” said Craig Everett, Executive Director of the Most Fundable Companies program and Pepperdine Private Capital Markets Project. “Our goal is to provide founders with meaningful feedback and visibility that aligns with how professional investors evaluate opportunities.”

The competition is open to all U.S.-based startups with annual revenues under $10 million. Each applicant is evaluated based on financial projections, market opportunity, competitive positioning, intellectual property, and management team strength. Submissions are reviewed by a panel of investors, venture advisors, and Pepperdine faculty over multiple rounds.

In addition to recognition, participating companies gain exposure to an extended network of investors, entrepreneurs, and advisors.

“In today's capital environment, investors are focused on fundamentals, a clear market opportunity, disciplined execution, and credible paths to revenue," said Bala Sriraghavan, CEO/Co-founder of Datanetiix Solutions and member of the Pepperdine Graziadio Board. "Programs like Most Fundable Companies give founders a realistic benchmark against investor expectations and a structured evaluation process that strengthens their companies before they enter critical funding conversations."

The 2026 Most Fundable Companies winners will be announced on September 23rd and recognized at a showcase event hosted at Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA.

To learn more or apply, visit: pepperdine.edu/mfc 

Disclaimers: The Pepperdine Graziadio Most Fundable Companies List does not represent an offer to sell securities. It does not constitute investment advice, nor is it an endorsement of any product or service. Pepperdine University is not a broker-dealer and does not perform services provided by a broker-dealer, including but not limited to any financial or investment advising.

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About Pepperdine University Graziadio Business School

For more than 50 years, the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School has challenged individuals to think boldly and drive meaningful change within their industries and communities. Offering a comprehensive range of BSM, MBA, MS, executive, and doctoral degree programs grounded in integrity, innovation, and entrepreneurship, the Graziadio School advances experiential learning through small classes with distinguished faculty that stimulate critical thinking and meaningful connection. Students and working professionals are inspired to realize their greatest potential as values-centered leaders. Follow Pepperdine Graziadio on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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