Nicki Minaj judges Million Dollar Pitch competition featuring Trump as 5 entrepreneurs vie for $1M
WASHINGTON, DC: Nicki Minaj joined the Small Business Administration’s Million Dollar Pitch Competition, where five entrepreneurs competed for a share of a $1 million prize pool.
The show premiered on October 20, 2026, streaming on YouTube and Prime Video, with a special appearance by President Donald Trump.
Hosted by Dean Cain, the competition featured Minaj, entrepreneur Grant Cardone and Airbnb co-founder Joe Gebbia as judges.
Funded by Clover Network, Inc, the contest brought five small-business finalists to Washington, DC, to pitch their ideas before a live audience.
Minaj also involved her fans in the event through a virtual watch party and an outfit contest.
Using the hashtags #MillionDollarPitch and #MillionDollarFIT, she invited supporters to participate and rewarded some fans with cash prizes.
Not going anywhere. Right where I need to be. 🙏🏽
— Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) October 20, 2026
Nicki Minaj joins SBA’s $1 million pitch competition
The Million Dollar Pitch Competition gave five finalists an opportunity to present their businesses, growth plans and future goals in the hope of winning a share of the $1 million prize pool.
The competition was filmed before a live audience in Washington, DC, and marked the culmination of a nationwide contest focused on small businesses and their contributions to the American economy.
The show also featured a special appearance by Trump, drawing parallels with his time on 'The Apprentice,' the television show that focused on business competition and the qualities needed to succeed as an entrepreneur.
The SBA presented the event as part of its Freedom 250 celebration, highlighting the role of small businesses in supporting jobs, innovation and economic growth across the country.
Nicki Minaj rewards fans with cash prizes
The rapper awarded cash prizes to participating fans and also helped a supporter pay off medical credit card debt.
Ok so there were more than 4 winners. These are my first 4. The next couple posts will have a poll so you guys can help me choose the rest! Congratulations!!!!! #MillionDollarPitch #MillionDollarFit You’ll be sent a few dollars. Don’t spend it all in one place 🎀 https://t.co/ITyhIK5ItM
— Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) October 21, 2026
The gesture added a personal element to her involvement, extending the event beyond the business pitches and celebrity judging panel.
Her fan contest also gave supporters a way to participate from home while the finalists competed for the prize money.
The combination of business, celebrity and fan engagement brought several different audiences into the same event.
Kelly Loeffler highlights small business competition
SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler said the competition was designed to celebrate entrepreneurs and reach viewers across the United States and around the world.
“The Trump SBA is thrilled to announce that the Million Dollar Pitch Competition will stream on Prime Video and YouTube reaching audiences across our country and around the world, celebrating 250 years of free enterprise, American exceptionalism, and the hardworking small businesses that make it possible,” Loeffler said.
She added that the five finalists had competed in a nationwide contest for the opportunity to take the stage and win a share of the $1 million prize pool.
The Million Dollar Pitch Competition premieres next Tuesday, October 20 at 6:00 PM ET on YouTube and 8:00 PM ET on Prime Video. You won’t want to miss it! ⬇️
— Kelly Loeffler (@KLoeffler) October 16, 2026
“The SBA is proud to highlight the importance and contributions of our nation’s small businesses, while inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs, risk-takers, and innovators to build their future,” Loeffler said.
The competition also highlighted the personal stories behind the businesses, including the resilience and sacrifices that helped the finalists reach the national stage.
