Pitch@Palace Initiative Founded to Support Entrepreneurs

Pitch@Palace, the entrepreneurship initiative founded by Prince Andrew, Duke of York, in 2014, was officially dissolved in early 2026 after more than a decade of operation. The program, originally established to support business innovation, had faced increasing scrutiny and loss of institutional backing in the years following its founder’s withdrawal from public duties in 2019. Launched in 2014, Pitch@Palace was designed to connect early-stage entrepreneurs with mentors, investors, and business leaders. The initiative operated through structured pitching events, often compared to a “Dragons’ Den”-style format, where selected participants presented their business ideas to panels of potential supporters. Typically, around 42 businesses were chosen for each cycle, which took place approximately every six months. The program aimed to bridge the gap between startup formation and scaling by providing access to networks, expertise, and funding opportunities. Over the course of its operation, the initiative expanded internationally, hosting events in multiple countries and building a network of entrepreneurs and partners. Prince Andrew had previously stated that the platform supported more than 3,000 companies and contributed to the creation of approximately 3,000 jobs globally. These figures were cited as part of the initiative’s reported outcomes during its active years. However, following Prince Andrew’s decision to step back from public duties in November 2019 and subsequent controversies, major sponsors and partners began withdrawing their support. Organizations such as KPMG, Barclays, and Standard Chartered exited the program, citing reputational considerations. This led to a gradual decline in activity and viability, with events becoming less frequent and institutional backing diminishing. By early 2026, the initiative was formally dissolved, bringing an end to a program that had once been a central part of Prince Andrew’s public role. The closure marked the conclusion of one of his most prominent business-focused projects, reflecting the long-term impact of earlier developments on its sustainability. #PitchAtPalace #Entrepreneurship #PrinceAndrew #Startups #BusinessInnovation