What is the Rising C-Suites LA Business Hackathon (RCLA)?

The Rising C-Suites LA Business Hackathon (RCLA) is a dynamic two-day competition designed for high school students with a passion for innovation and leadership. Hosted in collaboration with UCLA’s Bruin Entrepreneurs and experienced entrepreneurs, RCLA challenges students to develop bold, creative solutions to real-world problems.

Powered by Rising C-Suites, a youth-driven movement dedicated to empowering the next generation of socially conscious business leaders. This immersive experience goes beyond a typical case competition. At RCLA, students don’t just pitch ideas—they build them, test them, and present them to industry experts, gaining invaluable feedback and connections along the way.

When and Where is RCLA?

The 2025 RCLA Powered by Bruin Entrepreneurs will take place on the UCLA campus from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. PDT on May 31st and June 1st, 2025. Housing and transportation are NOT provided.

What are the criteria to apply?

Students currently in grades 9–12 are eligible to apply. Use the navigation on the left to access and submit your application.

When is the application due?

The application is due by 11:59 P.M. PDT on May 18th, 2025.

What is the fee to attend/apply for RCLA?

The application fee is $20, and if accepted, the entry fee is $200. See our refund policy below.

What is the RCLA Refund Policy?

The application fee is NONREFUNDABLE. However, if you have paid the final entry fee, you have 48 hours to request a full refund (minus transaction fees) by emailing us at risingcsuites@gmail.com.

What makes RCLA special?

There are countless business competitions out there, but none offer the unpredictability, intensity, and creativity of RCLA. Far beyond a traditional case comp, RCLA is a hands-on, high-pressure experience that pushes you to think fast, pivot often, and lead with impact.

Each edition of the hackathon presents a completely new challenge with different prompts, judging criteria, presentation styles, and time constraints. No two RCLAs are ever the same.

RCLA reflects the real world: fast-paced, uncertain, and constantly evolving. It’s built for those who thrive on thinking boldly, adapting quickly, and leading confidently.