Paycor & the Cincinnati Bengals Present 4th Annual Earn Your Stripes
What Makes Your Business Special? We Want to Know!
When leaders succeed, businesses thrive. That’s why Paycor and the Cincinnati Bengals are bringing back Earn Your Stripes for its fourth year — a game-changing opportunity that empowers minority business leaders in the Tri-State area to take their companies to the next level.
Every successful business needs a leader who can turn bold vision into real results. Through this competition, we’re seeking visionaries who aren’t just building businesses — they’re creating lasting impact in their communities.
There will be six finalists from the initial application round, with one standout leader claiming a premium sponsorship package from the Cincinnati Bengals. This winning business will receive marketing assets, stadium signage, and game tickets — powerful tools that help drive visibility, growth, and measurable business outcomes. Because when minority business leaders win, our entire community scores.
Key Dates
- All entries must be received by May 11, 2026.
- The six finalists will be announced on May 21, 2026.
- Earn Your Stripes pitch contest with finalists at Paycor Stadium on June 25, 2026.
Contest Rules
- Applicants must be local to the Tri-State region. The Tri-State area comprises counties throughout Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. Businesses must be located in one of the following counties to be eligible: Brown, Butler, Clermont, Hamilton, and Warren in Ohio; Dearborn, Franklin, and Ohio in Indiana; and Boone, Bracken, Campbell, Gallatin, Grant, and Kenton in Kentucky.
- Annual business revenue cannot exceed $5 million.
- Business must be minority owned, which is defined as at least 51% of the business is owned by a person (or persons) who have full operational control and are African American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian, or other similar minority race designation, and otherwise meet our requirements.
- You must have a unique or innovative approach to your business, which could include operations, products/services, community impact, etc.
- Business cannot have an existing sponsorship with the Cincinnati Bengals.
- Open to Paycor customers and non-customers.
