2027 SPIE Startup Challenge

About

The SPIE Startup Challenge invites entrepreneurs with innovative optics and photonics technologies to compete by submitting a detailed application and video pitch, with finalists presenting live at the Photonics West conference for a chance to win recognition and valuable feedback from industry experts.

Benefits

• 🏆Prize — Recognition as a Startup Challenge Winner
• 📈Feedback — Written feedback from experienced entrepreneurs and investors
• 🎤Pitch Opportunity — Finalists present live at Photonics West 2027

Eligibility Criteria

• Participants must have an optics or photonics technology or application
• Companies in the pre-seed or seed stages with less than $500K in revenue
• Open to the worldwide community of entrepreneurs

Participation Commitments

• 📝 Written Application — Extensive application including a video pitch
• 🎤 Live Pitch — Finalists must pitch in person at Photonics West
• ✈️ Travel Arrangements — Finalists are responsible for their own travel to San Francisco

Target Region

Worldwide

Target Sector

Optics and Photonics Technology