FAQ's

All you need to know

FAQ's: FAQ

What is Pitch '26?

Pitch ’26 is an initiative, developed by Brown Thomas Arnotts, inviting Irish start-ups and entrepreneurs to pitch for a chance to be mentored by a team of experts in the world of retail and secure placement as part of the 2026 Arnotts Christmas Market and thereafter. : The overall winner will receive a prize package including retailing in Arnotts, a ten thousand euro business development fund from Brown Thomas Arnotts, financial services from Pitch sponsor FRAME Advisory and a Media Campaign fund courtesy of The Business Post and Newstalk.

Can anyone enter Pitch '26?

In order to meet criteria to enter, you must be a designer/ maker/ innovator/ entrepreneur in fashion, beauty & wellness, jewellery, lifestyle & food who has a product/range developed or a service proposition identified - Full entry requirement details are listed on our 'Criteria' page.

Can I enter Pitch if I applied previously?

Yes, if you applied you applied to Pitch previously but were unsuccessful you are welcome to apply again.

How do I enter?

Applications are open from Monday 8th June – Tuesday 30th June 2026. Apply here.

When is the closing date for entries?

Closing date for entries is Tuesday 30th June 2026.

Is this open to International applicants?

Your business needs to be based in Ireland.

I have a great idea, but I don't have a product range, can I enter?

If your proposed product will be ready by 1st September 2026, you are eligible to enter Pitch '26. If you have an innovative idea that you would like to discuss with Brown Thomas Arnotts, that isn't focused solely on a product, please email details to 'Pitch@arnotts.ie'.

My business isn't a new start-up, can I still apply?

Yes, small established companies can apply too

I have more than one business, can I enter more than once?

Yes if you are the owner of more than one business you may enter multiple times, however only one can be selected to progress to the next stage.

What is the prize?

The overall winner will receive a prize package including retailing in Arnotts, a ten thousand euro business development fund from Brown Thomas Arnotts, financial services from Pitch sponsor FRAME Advisory and a Media Campaign fund courtesy of The Business Post and Newstalk.

What is the Arnotts Christmas Edit?

The Arnotts Christmas Market is a selection of brands and products curated for the Christmas gifting period which launches in November each year. This edit is made up of a wide range of brands across all categories which has a dedicated section both in-store and online. Winners will secure placement as part of the 2026 Christmas edit.

I have applied, when will I find out if I have been shortlisted?

Applicants who have made the shortlist will be contacted by 10th of July 2026.

I have been shortlisted, what's next?

If you have been shortlisted, you will be contacted by our team to confirm a date to pitch your business to our panel of judges. Judges will review all proposals and winners will be selected.

Who are the judges?

Our panel is made up of judges, each have a diverse range of experience in the world of retail.

How are applicants judged?

Applicants will be reviewed on the following areas:

Uniqueness, design, quality, make-up and execution of their product/ service
Demonstration in creating and nurturing a sustainable future for Arnotts Customers with their offering
Proven direct to consumer sales channels
The applicant’s vision for the future of their brand

I've been shortlisted, can I bring a team member to the pitch to the judges?

Yes up to two additional team members can participate in the pitch to the judges.

How many winners are there?

The finalists will avail of masterclasses and secure placement in the Arnotts Christmas 2026 edit. We will have one ultimate winner who will secure the €10,000 business development fund.

How do I stay up to date on Pitch '26?

You can check out the Arnotts social channels along with pitch.arnotts.ie to stay up to date on all things Pitch.