IT Arena Startup Competition 2026

About

A startup competition offering the chance to pitch to a diverse group of investors while competing for significant grant prizes and investment funding. Participants will gain global visibility and networking opportunities at a major tech conference, along with expert feedback to enhance their business strategies.

Benefits

• 🎤Pitch Opportunity
  Present your startup to 150+ investors from Ukraine, Europe, the US, and the Middle East
• 🌍Global Visibility
  Gain exposure to 7,500+ attendees, international media, and tech industry leaders
• 💰Grant Prizes
  Compete for $60,000 in grant prizes and access to a $12.5M investment fund
• 🏢Expo Booth
  Secure a booth at the Startup Expo Zone or Defence Expo at IT Arena 2026
• 🤝Networking
  Engage with clients, partners, mentors, and founders throughout the three-day conference
• 🛠️ Expert Feedback
  Receive actionable insights to refine your product and market positioning

Eligibility Criteria

• Registered in Ukraine as a sole trader or legal entity
• Confirmed sales of $10,000+ or raised investments/grants of $25,000+
• Product at MVP stage or beyond
• No Russian or Belarusian citizens among team members or founders
• Ability to present the startup in person in Lviv

Participation Commitments

• Must present the startup in person in Lviv
• Participation in the semi-final on September 26 and the grand final on September 27

Target Region

Ukraine

Target Sector

All sectors