Gap in Between Startup Challenge 2026

About

A competition designed for impact-driven startups focusing on climate, mobility, health, food, and social innovation, offering opportunities for investment and strategic partnerships. Selected startups will participate in a final event where they can showcase their solutions, gain visibility, and compete for a €10,000 prize.

Benefits

• 🎯Matchmaking Opportunities
  Selected startups gain access to curated matchmaking with investors, corporates and ecosystem actors
• 🌍Event Participation
  Participation in The Gap in Between event
• 📈Ecosystem Visibility
  Visibility within a curated ecosystem of impact innovation
• 🎤Pitch Sessions
  Semifinalists present their solution in pitch sessions during the event
• 💰Cash Prize
  One startup will receive a €10,000 prize

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to startups from all geographies
• Impact-driven startups across climate, mobility, health, food and social innovation
• Founders looking for investment or strategic partnerships
• Startups with validated products or market traction
• Teams ready to scale their solution internationally

Participation Commitments

• Selected startups are expected to attend the final event in person in Valencia on October 20
• Application and preparation phases are online
• Participation in the event is free

Target Region

Global

Target Sector

Climate Tech, Smart Cities, AgriTech, Health, Social Innovation