APPLICATIONS OPEN · OCTOBER 1- NOVEMBER 30, 2026
Switzerland's leading
startup competition
For 30 years we've backed the country's most innovative early-stage founders: CHF 590,000 in non-dilutive funding every year, mentoring from people who've built and funded companies, and a stage in front of Switzerland's top executives.
Entering takes one short form and one evening. Free, and we never take equity.
30
YEARS BACKING FOUNDERS
1,500+
ALUMNI COMPANIES
15,000+
JOBS CREATED
0%
EQUITY TAKEN
COME MEET US
The Starting Line
Watch real jurors score startups live on the six criteria that decide the most promising startups of 2027. Draft your own answer in the Writing Room, get it challenged in the Clinics, then start your application on the spot.
Free, and open to anyone thinking about applying.
SPOTLIGHT AWARD 2027
A second way to win.
This year's theme: Work, Reimagined.
CHF 50,0000
Non- dilutive
Work is changing faster than our schools, companies and institutions can keep up. If your startup helps people, teams or entire sectors prepare for what comes next, we want to see it.
Open to all participants
No separate application
Same November 30 deadline
DON'T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT...
Here's what our network and alumni have to say
"Innovation lies at the core of maxon. That's why we are committed to constantly advancing our technologies. But innovation doesn't happen in isolation. As a company that thrives on curiosity and fresh thinking, we actively seek inspiration beyond our own walls. Being part of >>venture>> is a great opportunity for us to engage with the startup ecosystem, discover cutting-edge ideas, and be inspired by the next generation of entrepreneurs and technologies."
Eugen Elmiger CEO, at maxon Group
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