Must be between the ages of 30-65 by June 1 of the competition year
Must be a United States citizen or legal permanent resident
Be a natural born female
Can be single or married
Be a corporate professional or business owner with 5 years of professional experience
Minimum 2 years of community service involvement (past or present)
State contestants must meet state residency requirements for competing in your state: Live, work, attend school in the state in which you are competing, or have ties to the state (born in the state or have family roots there).
Title winner to State and National winner must agree that she will not participate in any other competitions during the time she holds the National title unless authorized in writing by the Ms. Corporate America competition.
Must be willing to release, unconditionally and forever, any claim against the Ms. Corporate America competition, its parent and affiliated or related companies and their respective officers, directors, partners, employees, agents and assigns, or by any use of their name, likeness, voice, and/or biography in connection with the national competition. This includes use in promotional and advertising material.
Must understand and agree that the Ms. Corporate America competition shall determine all issues as to eligibility to compete in competition. Candidates must agree to abide by that determination both as to themselves and other applicants.
Applicants must not use or consume any illegal or controlled substances or abuse the use of alcohol or other dangerous substances.
Applicants must be in good health physically and mentally and must be able to perform the professional responsibilities if selected as the winner. Applicants must have no past or present association with the adult entertainment or publishing industries.
All selected candidates must pay the $2,000 entry fee (includes optional full-page ad in the MCA Program Guide). The entry fee can be paid by the candidate or can be sponsored by the candidate’s company. Candidates may also seek support from business associates, family, and friends.
Judging Criteria
Panel Interview - 40%
During this 5-7 minute interview, each contestant will engage in a series of questions from the judges designed to uncover her professional background, achievements, talents, and aspirations. This is an opportunity for the contestant to display her personality, communication skills, and leadership potential.
Key Criteria Includes:
Communication Skills: How clearly and effectively does the contestant express her thoughts? Does she maintain good eye contact, engage with the judges, and listen actively?
Confidence & Composure: Does the contestant appear self-assured and composed under pressure? Is she able to handle unexpected or challenging questions with grace and professionalism?
Substance of Answers: Are her answers thoughtful and insightful? Do they reflect her depth of experience, accomplishments, and future goals?
Charm & Personality: Does she have a warm, engaging presence? Is she personable and able to make a strong connection with the judges?
Professionalism: Does she present herself with poise, maintaining a professional demeanor throughout the interview?
Judges will assess how well each contestant communicates her strengths, responds to questions, and represents herself as a potential Ms. Corporate America.
Personal Pitch - 30%
This category provides each contestant the opportunity to showcase why she is the ideal candidate to be the next Ms. Corporate America. Contestants will deliver a compelling pitch, demonstrating confidence, leadership, and their unique vision for the title. Judges will assess not only the content of the pitch but also the delivery, clarity, and overall professionalism.
Key Criteria Includes:
Content & Persuasion: How well does the contestant articulate why she should be chosen? Is her message clear, impactful, and persuasive?
Delivery & Confidence: Does she speak with authority and conviction? Is she poised and confident throughout the pitch?
Creativity: Use of props is allowed—do they enhance the presentation and support her message? Is she engaging and memorable?
Professional Attire: Attire should be a business suit or dress. Does her outfit reflect professionalism and align with her pitch’s message?
Time Management: The pitch must be no longer than 2 minutes. Does she make the most of her time, delivering a concise and effective presentation?
Contestants are encouraged to captivate the judges with a combination of strong communication, a compelling narrative, and a polished, professional appearance.
Formal Wear - 30%
The formal wear competition is the most glamorous segment, allowing each contestant to showcase her elegance and fashion sense. Contestants will be judged on how well they captivate the audience with their overall presence, demonstrating confidence, grace, and style.
Key Criteria Includes:
Confidence & Poise: Does the contestant carry herself with grace and composure? Is she confident, poised, and commanding attention on stage?
Style & Fashion Sense: How well does the contestant’s gown reflect her personal style? Is it fashionable, flattering, and appropriate for the occasion?
Fit & Design of Gown: Does the gown fit well and enhance the contestant’s overall appearance? Is the design unique, elegant, and suited to her body type?
Choice of Accessories: How well do the accessories (jewelry, shoes, etc.) complement the gown? Are they tasteful and cohesive with the overall look?
Overall Presentation: Is the contestant’s entire look polished and put together? Does she exude elegance and sophistication, leaving a lasting impression?
Judges are looking for contestants who "wow" with a combination of style, poise, and confidence, creating a captivating and elegant appearance in their floor length formal wear.
MCA Judges
MCA judges are carefully selected. Our judges have made positive contributions to local and international communities as individuals or through organizations. We seek judges who appreciate the full value of women in their everyday lives and are able to glean these qualities in the MCA candidates.
We hand pick 5 to 7 judges to evaluate the candidates for the competition. We do our best to represent diversity on the panel so that there’s consideration of the candidates’ various perspectives. Our judging panel includes individuals from the below categories:
Artist/Celebrity
News/Radio Personality
Government Official/Community Advocate
Pageant Queen
Prominent Business Woman
Pageant Coach
Women’s Non-Profit Organization Representative