Startups from across the MENA region and the world are invited to participate in the VivaTech 2026 Startup Challenges & Awards, Europe’s premier tech event, to solve real-world business problems and gain global exposure.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Startup Challenges & Awards (Open Innovation Competitions)
- For: Innovative Startups looking to scale and collaborate with global corporates
- Key Benefits: Pitching opportunities, exhibition booths, commercial deals, and investor access
- Application Deadline: Varies by specific challenge (Indicated on individual challenge pages)
- Location: Paris, France (June 17-20, 2026)
Competition Overview
The VivaTech Startup Challenges are open innovation competitions where global corporations and public partners present specific business needs. Startups are invited to submit solutions that address these stakes, providing a strategic pathway to connect directly with organizations ready to deploy technology at scale. For its 10th edition, the event focuses on major tech shifts including AI-driven transformation, sustainable innovation, digital infrastructure, and empowering women founders and African innovation.
Key Benefits
- Commercial Deals: Opportunity to secure contracts with leading corporate partners.
- Premium Visibility: Showcase your solution on a global stage to C-level executives and media.
- Exhibition Space: Selected winners may win a booth to exhibit at the event in Paris.
- Pitching Opportunities: Present your solution live on stage to a jury of expert investors and decision-makers.
- Network Access: Connect with over 3,600 investors and 80+ expert jury members.
- Mentorship: Gain insights and guidance from industry leaders to accelerate growth.
Eligibility Criteria
- Stage: Startups with innovative solutions ready to address specific corporate needs.
- Sectors: Broad range of tech sectors including AI, Cloud, Digital Infrastructure, Sustainability, and Energy.
- Focus Areas: Special interest in women-led startups and innovation coming from the African continent.
- Geographic Scope: Open to international applicants from across the globe.
How to Apply
To participate, startups must select a specific challenge relevant to their industry and complete the online application form. The jury will assess applications based on the information provided.
- Deadline: Check individual challenge pages for specific closing dates.
- Apply Here: https://vivatech.com/challenges
About VivaTech
VivaTech is Europe’s biggest startup and tech event. It serves as a global catalyst for digital transformation and startup growth, bringing together the world’s most innovative actors to ignite positive change in business and society.
Learn More: VivaTech
