LEAP has announced the return of the Rocket Fuel Pitch Competition for its fifth edition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. High-growth technology startups from around the world are invited to compete for a share of a $1 million equity-free prize fund and the chance to pitch live in front of global investors.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Startup Pitch Competition
- For: Global high-growth technology startups
- Key Benefits: $1,000,000 total equity-free prize pool and global investor exposure
- Application Deadline: February 15, 2026 (Eligibility Deadline)
- Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (Live finals at LEAP 2026)
Competition Overview
The Rocket Fuel Pitch Competition is the flagship startup event within LEAP 2026, designed to showcase 100 of the world’s most ambitious tech companies. Selected startups will travel to Saudi Arabia to pitch on the big stage from April 13–16, 2026. The competition aims to bridge the gap between innovative founders and top-tier global investors, culminating in a Grand Finale where winners are selected across seven distinct categories.
Prizes and Awards
The $1 million prize fund is distributed across seven specialized awards:
- LEAP Award ($250,000): For the most outstanding overall startup.
- Shooting Star Award ($150,000): For the best early-stage startup.
- Scaling Star Award ($150,000): For late-stage startups with unicorn potential.
- Tech for Humanity Award ($150,000): For solutions driving social impact.
- Into New Worlds Award ($150,000): For frontier innovation and deep tech.
- LEAP Landing Award ($100,000): For non-Saudi startups planning to enter the KSA market.
- LEAP Founder Award ($50,000): A crowd-voted award for the most promising founder.
Eligibility Criteria
- Sector: High-growth technology sectors.
- Geography: Open to startups globally.
- Stage: Startups are assessed based on team size, years in operation, funding raised, and scalability.
- Process: Participation is subject to a separate eligibility screening via the broader LEAP Startup Programme.
Key Dates and Schedule
- February 15, 2026: Deadline to apply for eligibility.
- April 13–16, 2026: Live pitching rounds at LEAP in Riyadh.
- April 16, 2026: The Grand Finale and winners’ announcement.
How to Apply
Founders must apply through the LEAP Startup Programme portal to be screened for the Rocket Fuel competition. Startups should ensure they meet the 15 February deadline to be considered for the live pitching slots.
- Apply via: LEAP Startup Programme
- Deadline: February 15, 2026
About LEAP
LEAP is a global technology conference held annually in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It serves as a major hub for the international tech community, bringing together hundreds of thousands of attendees, world-class speakers, and institutional investors to discuss the future of technology and foster innovation within the MENA region and beyond.
Learn More: One Giant Leap
