Deadline: March 9, 2026
Are you a student entrepreneur building a tech-driven startup with real social or environmental impact? The Next Startupper Award 2026 is now open for applications! This prestigious global competition recognises outstanding student founders and offers a unique opportunity to pitch at one of Europe’s biggest technology events, VivaTech in Paris, France.
If you are looking for funding, global exposure, and direct access to investors and industry leaders, the Next Startupper Award 2026 could be your launchpad.
About the Next Startupper Award 2026
The Next Startupper Award 2026 is a global competition designed specifically for student entrepreneurs developing innovative, technology-oriented startups or projects with a clear positive social or environmental impact.
The award is part of VivaTech, one of Europe’s leading technology and innovation events, which brings together startups, investors, policymakers, and global companies in Paris each year.
This initiative aims to spotlight promising student founders and provide them with the visibility, resources, and platform they need to scale their solutions internationally.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 9 March 2026
- Finalists Announcement: Around 3 April 2026
- Final Event: 17–20 June 2026 (during VivaTech in Paris, France)
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Benefits of the Next Startupper Award 2026
🎯 For All 6 Finalists
Selected finalists will receive:
- Speaker and startup passes granting 4-day access to VivaTech
- The opportunity to pitch on the Pitch Studio Stage
- Participation in a masterclass session with the CEO of Welcome to the Jungle
- A dedicated programme designed specifically for finalists during the event
This is a major opportunity to gain international exposure and connect with global tech leaders.
🏆 For the Overall Winner
In addition to all finalist benefits, the winner will receive:
- A €5,000 cash prize to support the development of their startup
- A Startup Corner spot at VivaTech 2027
- The opportunity to pitch on the Main Stage at VivaTech
This prize package offers both immediate financial support and long-term visibility within the global startup ecosystem.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Next Startupper Award 2026, applicants must:
- Be a current student enrolled in a school or university (from any country)
- Have a startup or project that is less than three years old
- Be developing a technology-oriented solution
- Demonstrate a clear positive social and/or environmental impact
- Be able to pitch and communicate effectively in English
- Submit the application in English
Only eligible student entrepreneurs who meet all the criteria will be considered.
Selection Criteria
Projects will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
1. Entrepreneur Profile
- Vision and ambition
- Understanding of the market and customers
- Leadership potential
2. Innovation
- Originality of the concept
- Strength of the technological component
3. Positive Impact
- Measurable or clear social and/or environmental contribution
4. Scalability
- Potential for sustainable growth
- Capacity to expand across markets
Strong applications clearly demonstrate impact, innovation, and growth potential.
Why Apply for the Next Startupper Award 2026?
The Next Startupper Award 2026 offers:
- Global exposure at a leading European tech conference
- Direct networking with investors, mentors, and corporate leaders
- High-level pitching opportunities
- Cash funding and exhibition opportunities
- Validation and credibility for early-stage student startups
For student founders aiming to scale internationally, this award can be a significant milestone.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit their applications through the official VivaTech challenges platform.
📖 Read More About the Programme
Make sure your application clearly outlines your innovation, impact, and scalability potential.
