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
">>venture>> offered validation, valuable connections, and a platform to showcase our vision. The insights and exposure we gained continue to have a lasting impact on our journey. The experience strengthened our confidence as founders and accelerated our entrepreneurial journey. I would strongly encourage any startup considering applying to take the opportunity."
Olivier Schären, Co-Founder of Santella
Pharma & Biotech Finalist, 2026
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