
The competition has three categories for candidates: Idea, Development, and Traction. To apply, you will supply basic details about your startup, your startup's logos, and your pitch deck for review.
Once you apply, you'll receive a confirmation email with additional details regarding your local competition. Local competitions wrap up on February 21, 2026. If you do not receive a confirmation email after applying, we likely did not receive your application and you should reapply.
Each startup in each stage will have two minutes and three slides to pitch their startup. You will submit your three slides once you have been accepted into the competition. You will submit your three slides AFTER you have been approved to be in the competition, not during your application.
*Local competitions have their own deadlines for applying. Please check each local competition page for more details.
Applications and the wait-list for our virtual competition are CLOSED. Please apply at a local competition if you would like to pitch.
Semi-final candidates receive their slots and additional competition details for semi-finals on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Startups will compete in the city that is in their region. If there is no competition in your local city, you may participate in our virtual competition. Local competitions may take place in person or online.