Pitch Fest: How We Turn Big Ideas into Big Impact

Every year at our company retreat, Pitch Fest gives our team a chance to share bold ideas that shape our future. It’s not just about innovation, it’s about confidence, creativity, and the power of every voice on the team.

What Is Pitch Fest?

Pitch Fest is our company’s version of Shark Tank, minus the sharks.

Each team member gets 3–5 minutes to pitch an idea that:

• Solves a problem
  
  
• Creates a better experience for our team or members
  
  
• Opens up new opportunities
  
  
• Refines or improves something we already do
  

Some pitches aim to revolutionize how we work. Others are subtle tweaks that make us better, faster, or more connected.

Big or small, every idea matters. Every voice is valued.

Why We Do It

Pitch Fest isn’t just about idea generation. It’s a reflection of who we are and what we value.

We Dream Big

We make space for innovation. Many of our best ideas, the kind that move the needle, have come from this event.

We Build Confidence

Pitch Fest helps our team grow communication and presentation skills in a low-pressure, energizing environment.

We Have Fun

The atmosphere is electric. Laughter, high-fives, and creative energy fill the room. We celebrate every pitch because we know they all move us forward.

The Power of an Idea

Over the years, Pitch Fest has led to:

• A new product line
  
  
• Meaningful feature enhancements
  
  
• Culture-building moments like volunteering during our retreats
  

Some ideas launch immediately. Some evolve. And some plant seeds that grow over time.

But they all matter. Because they remind us that innovation doesn’t just come from the top, it comes from everywhere.

How You Can Embrace Pitch Fest Thinking

You don’t need a retreat or a formal event to create a culture of innovation. Here’s how to infuse Pitch Fest energy into your everyday work:

1. Think like an owner
   Ask yourself: If this were my company, what would I change?
   
   
2. Look for small wins
   Not every breakthrough has to be big. Small ideas can lead to major improvements.
   
   
3. Be bold
   Share your ideas, even the ones that feel a little out there. Big impact starts with brave thinking.
   

Final Thought: The Best Ideas Are Yet to Come

Pitch Fest is more than an activity, it’s a mindset.

It’s about believing in the power of your people. It’s about saying yes to innovation, to bold thinking, to better ways of doing what we do.

And most importantly, it’s about recognizing that the best ideas aren’t just out there waiting to be discovered…

They’re already on your team, waiting to be shared.

So here’s my challenge to you:

If you had 3–5 minutes to pitch an idea that could change the game…

What would you say?

Let’s keep the conversation going on LinkedIn! Connect with me for more leadership tips and advice. 

Why Pitch Fest Is More Than Just Sharing Ideas

In this short video, I share how Pitch Fest has become one of the most powerful traditions at Text In Church, a space where every voice is valued, bold ideas are celebrated, and innovation shapes our future.

▶ Watch: How Pitch Fest Turns Ideas into Impact

Whether you’re leading a church, a business, or a team, I believe this is a powerful reminder that breakthrough doesn’t just come from the top. It comes from creating space where everyone can dream big, pitch confidently, and contribute to the mission.

About Tyler Smith

Tyler Smith is the co-founder and CEO of Text In Church, a communication platform built to help churches connect with their people beyond Sunday mornings. With over 20 years of leadership experience, Tyler shares practical strategies to help church and business leaders grow with clarity and confidence.

He’s a husband, dad, and lifelong learner who’s passionate about building systems that empower people and strengthen communities.

👉 Connect with Tyler on LinkedIn for more leadership and communication insights.