Polar Bear Pitching India 2026 (Third Annual India Edition)

About

Selected Indian startups pitch from an ice-cold pool at the Embassy of Finland in New Delhi on 20 November 2026, with the winner earning a place at the international final in Oulu in February 2027.

Benefits

• 🏆International final place
  The winner of the India edition earns a place in the international Polar Bear Pitching Competition in Oulu, Finland, in February 2027.
• 🌍International visibility and networks
  The organisers state that the winning entrepreneur gains international visibility and opportunities to meet investors, founders and potential business partners.
• 🧖Sauna networking
  Participants can warm up, connect and network in a sauna after the icy pitch.

Eligibility Criteria

• Indian startups are invited to apply.
• Detailed stage, team-size, funding and incorporation or operating requirements for the third edition are not stated in the official announcement and should be confirmed on the application page.

Participation Commitments

• Submit an application through the official T-Hub Polar Bear application page
• Applications close on 05 November 2026
• Selected startups are invited to pitch live from an ice-cold pool at the Embassy of Finland in New Delhi on 20 November 2026
• The India winner's follow-on international competition is in Oulu, Finland, in February 2027

Target Region

Applicant eligibility is explicitly for Indian startups; the official announcement does not state separate nationality, residence, incorporation or operating requirements.

Target Sector

Agriculture & Food, Defense & Security, Education, Energy & Utilities, Financial Services, Government & Public Sector, Healthcare & Life Sciences, Manufacturing, Media & Entertainment, Real Estate & Construction, Retail & Consumer, Semiconductors & Electronics, Sports & Fitness, Telecommunications, Transportation & Logistics, Travel & Hospitality, Other