The HEIPowered Startup Pitch Competition returns!
Last year, eight ambitious startups stepped onto a virtual stage with just three minutes to tell their story.
Behind those three minutes were years of research, countless iterations, late-night problem-solving sessions, and a shared belief that innovative ideas can change the world.
From biodegradable plastics tackling global pollution to sustainable alternatives to palm oil and video games helping people overcome speech disorders, the first edition of the HEIPowered Startup Pitch Competition showcased the incredible entrepreneurial talent emerging from projects funded by the EIT Higher Education Initiative.
Today, we are excited to announce that the journey continues.
Applications are now open for the second edition of the HEIPowered Startup Pitch Competition
If your startup was created or supported through a project funded by the EIT Higher Education Initiative and officially reported by them, this is your opportunity to take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey.
The competition aims to accelerate the growth of promising early-stage ventures, strengthen their market readiness and scalability, and contribute to a stronger innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem across Europe.
More than a competition, it is a platform to gain visibility, receive expert support and showcase the impact of innovation emerging from higher education institutions.
A look back at our first edition
The inaugural competition brought together eight outstanding startups from across Europe, each supported by EIT Higher Education Initiative projects.
Following a series of inspiring online pitches and discussions with a distinguished jury representing the European innovation ecosystem, three startups emerged as winners:
🥇 E.V.A Biosystems – awarded first place for its groundbreaking biodegradable plastics technology.
🥈 ÄIO – recognised for developing sustainable oils and fats through innovative fermentation processes.
🥉 SAY IT Labs – celebrated for its gamified approach to speech therapy and language development.
Beyond the cash prizes, the finalists gained valuable visibility, mentoring opportunities, and the chance to present their solutions to a broader European audience during EIT flagship events in Brussels.
Now, a new group of startups has the opportunity to follow in their footsteps.
What's new in 2026?
This year's competition offers even greater support for participating startups. While last year's finalists pitched online from different corners of Europe, this edition will bring the finalists together in person for a live startup competition. Beyond competing for prizes, participants will have the opportunity to build meaningful connections, gain visibility, and experience the energy of pitching their ventures in front of a live audience.
Stage 1 – Online Application
Applicants must submit an online application and, following the evaluation process, the top five startups will be selected and invited to participate in the final stage of the competition.
Stage 2 – In-Person Startup Pitch Competition
The five finalists will pitch their ventures live at an in-person event taking place in a European city during the fourth quarter of 2026.
After the final pitches, three winners will be selected to receive:
Cash prizes
🥇 1st place: €15,000
🥈 2nd place: €10,000
🥉 3rd place: €5,000
Expert mentoring
The three winners will each receive 8 hours of individual mentoring from experienced experts. In addition, the two remaining finalists will each receive 3 hours of individual mentoring, ensuring that every finalist benefits from tailored guidance to support their growth journey.
Don't miss the deadline
Applications close on 8 July 2026 at 17:00 CEST.
This competition is your chance to step into the spotlight, share your startup’s story with the EIT Higher Education Initiative Community and beyond, and gain the funding, mentorship, and visibility needed to take your venture to the next stage of growth.
The next success story could be yours.
Submit your application today and take your startup to the next stage of growth.
Watch the info session of the Competition.