2026 SPIE Startup Challenge

About

The 2026 SPIE Startup Challenge is a prestigious competition for startups in the optics and photonics sector, offering expert mentorship, substantial cash prizes, and valuable industry connections, with applications due by October 7, 2025, and finals held during the Photonics West event in San Francisco.

Benefits

• Guidance and feedback from industry experts and investors
• Exposure to potential investors and media
• Cash prizes: $10,000 for first place, $5,000 for second place, $2,500 for third place
• SPIE Jay Kumler Innovation Award for outstanding innovative solutions
• Promotion and exposure for winners and finalists through optics.org, SPIE.org, and social media
• Networking opportunities with industry entrepreneurs and past participants

Eligibility Criteria

• Startups in the optics and photonics field
• Focus on healthcare (point of care technologies) and deep tech (scientific or engineering innovations excluding software applications)
• Open to participants globally