T9 Pitchfest Outdoor Edition
Ever wondered what a fashion designer turned surfer, cosmetic chemist, and mountain biking mama from Idaho all have in common? Each one of these women has been finalists in our T9 Pitchfest. Each one of them has learned in real time that “pressure really is a privilege.”
For 7 years running, T9 Pitchfest has been the only event of its kind, where badass women entrepreneurs share their stories and pitch their products to our panel of industry experts.
What's on the line? A “W” means a 2025 purchase order, catalog & web spotlights, and brand-building exposure to T9’s adventurous customers.
Over 48 hours, we network, build community, get our sweat on, adventure outdoors, and learn from women who are pros in the retail and outdoor space. It’s 100% women-powered chaos (the good kind), camaraderie, and professional development.
T9 Pitchfest
Outdoor Edition
Ever wondered what a fashion designer turned surfer, cosmetic chemist, and mountain biking mama from Idaho all have in common? Each one of these women has been finalists in our T9 Pitchfest. Each one of them has learned in real time that “pressure really is a privilege.”
For 7 years running, T9 Pitchfest has been the only event of its kind, where badass women entrepreneurs share their stories and pitch their products to our panel of industry experts.
What's on the line? A “W” means a 2025 purchase order, catalog & web spotlights, and brand-building exposure to T9’s adventurous customers.
Over 48 hours, we network, build community, get our sweat on, adventure outdoors, and learn from women who are pros in the retail and outdoor space. It’s 100% women-powered chaos (the good kind), camaraderie, and professional development.
Our 2024 Finalists
Check out this year’s finalists. Get the scoop on their products. Be inspired by their stories.
Our 2024 Finalists
Check out this year’s finalists. Get the scoop on their products. Be inspired by their stories.
Stay In The Loop
Applications for the 2024 Pitchfest Outdoor Edition are now closed. Be the first to hear about Pitchfest finalists (and more) by signing up for T9 emails.
Stay In The Loop
Applications for the 2024 Pitchfest Outdoor Edition are now closed. Be the first to hear about Pitchfest finalists (and more) by signing up for T9 emails.
Pitchfest Outdoor Edition 2023
This year was bigger and bolder than ever. Check out the video above to get in on the fun, games, and inspiration.
Meet our 2023 Winners
Meet Our 2023 Winners
Merrit Geary
Founder, Alpen
Runner, skier, fisherwoman Merrit Geary was tired of feeling like a second thought to gear companies when she was looking for clothing to outfit her outdoors lifestyle. She started Bozeman-based Alpen to build technical clothing that is women-first and planet-first, thoughtfully designed to keep out the elements and keep up with our most ambitious adventures.
Jaclyn Thatcher
Founder, Hatcher Packs
On a mission to empower families with the tools to get outside — mom, nurse practitioner, and ultra-marathoner Jaclyn Thatcher built a diaper bag that could keep up with her active parenting lifestyle. With a slew of elite components and make-it-easier features, Hatcher Packs are designed to maximize every MOMent. Tons of pockets, a detachable soft baby carrier, a reservoir AND water bottle holders, plus a place to hold a laptop, these bags are built to hold up for every adventure: from the airport to the backcountry.
Maxine Chapman
Founder, SurfDurt
California-lovin SurfDurt founder Maxine Chapman is a passionate advocate of business as a tool for good. When she couldn't find a sunscreen that protected her skin without compromising the planet's delicate ecosystems, she decided to make one. Maxine calls SurfDurt Sunscreen the most "planet-friendly, non-toxic sport sunscreen on the market" 'cause it's built with a super safe sun-blocking zinc, antioxidants, and skin-boosting natural ingredients. It's inspired by the magic of the outdoor places she plays in, and made to last through the toughest adventures.
As a medal-winning D1 runner, Chantelle Lott couldn't find sports bras that could keep up with her rigorous training schedule. Wearing two or three bras at a time just to get the right support was uncomfortable, frustrating, and distracting. So she decided she was going to build a solution. Enter her genius, innovative Bounceless bras, the breathable, zippable, customizable solution to bounce-free running.
Merrit Geary
Founder, Alpen
Runner, skier, fisherwoman Merrit Geary was tired of feeling like a second thought to gear companies when she was looking for clothing to outfit her outdoors lifestyle. She started Bozeman-based Alpen to build technical clothing that is women-first and planet-first, thoughtfully designed to keep out the elements and keep up with our most ambitious adventures.
Jaclyn Thatcher
Founder, Hatcher Packs
On a mission to empower families with the tools to get outside — mom, nurse practitioner, and ultra-marathoner Jaclyn Thatcher built a diaper bag that could keep up with her active parenting lifestyle. With a slew of elite components and make-it-easier features, Hatcher Packs are designed to maximize every MOMent. Tons of pockets, a detachable soft baby carrier, a reservoir AND water bottle holders, plus a place to hold a laptop, these bags are built to hold up for every adventure: from the airport to the backcountry.
Maxine Chapman
Founder, SurfDurt
California-lovin SurfDurt founder Maxine Chapman is a passionate advocate of business as a tool for good. When she couldn't find a sunscreen that protected her skin without compromising the planet's delicate ecosystems, she decided to make one. Maxine calls SurfDurt Sunscreen the most "planet-friendly, non-toxic sport sunscreen on the market" 'cause it's built with a super safe sun-blocking zinc, antioxidants, and skin-boosting natural ingredients. It's inspired by the magic of the outdoor places she plays in, and made to last through the toughest adventures.
As a medal-winning D1 runner, Chantelle Lott couldn't find sports bras that could keep up with her rigorous training schedule. Wearing two or three bras at a time just to get the right support was uncomfortable, frustrating, and distracting. So she decided she was going to build a solution. Enter her genius, innovative Bounceless bras, the breathable, zippable, customizable solution to bounce-free running.