Are you a young visionary with a groundbreaking idea to address today's pressing challenges? If you're between 18 and 25 and a resident of any EU or EU/associate countries to the SME pillar of the Single Market Programme, join this competition!

Who can apply

Young people between 18 and 25, citizens of any of the EU and Single Market Programme countries.

How to participate

Submit a 2-minute pitch video in English showcasing your innovative start-up idea, its relevance, and your business plan. Your idea should promote innovation and reflect EU values. 

Provide a 3-page document that includes a short overview of your business plan.

Only one entry per applicant.

Prizes

The 3 shortlisted candidates will be announced online and invited to the SME & Cluster Assembly 2026 in Dublin, Ireland, from 2 to 4 November 2026. The audience winner will be invited to the European Innovation Council Summit 2027.

Deadline: 20 September 2026.

Read more here.

Opportunity offered by: European Commission