The AIEI Startup Pitch Session 2026, organized by the AI Ethics and Integrity International Association (AIEI), invites innovative AI startups to showcase their solutions at the AI Horizon Conference 2026, taking place on 11 November 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal. This opportunity allows selected startups to present their ideas to an international audience of investors, industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers. Participants can gain visibility, receive valuable feedback, establish partnerships, and expand their professional networks within the AI ecosystem.
Program Overview
- Organizer: AI Ethics and Integrity International Association (AIEI)
- Location: Lisbon, Portugal
- Format: In-person startup pitch session
- Application Deadline: 31 October 2026
- Selection Announcement: 3 November 2026
- Pitch Session Date: 11 November 2026
- Target Sectors: Artificial Intelligence across all industries
- Target Stages: Idea, Pre-seed, Seed, and Growth
Benefits for Selected Startups
The AIEI Startup Pitch Session provides participating startups with opportunities to:
- Pitch to Industry Leaders: Present innovative AI solutions to investors, researchers, policymakers, and business executives.
- Gain International Visibility: Receive exposure through conference media and AIEI communication channels.
- Expand Professional Networks: Connect with AI organizations, investors, entrepreneurs, and technology experts.
- Explore Partnerships: Build relationships that could lead to collaboration and business development.
- Receive Valuable Feedback: Gain insights from professionals experienced in AI development and innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
Applications are open to early-stage and growth-stage startups using artificial intelligence in any industry.
Eligible applicants should:
- Have a working product, prototype, or clearly defined business concept.
- Demonstrate an innovative application of AI to address real-world challenges.
- Show strong potential for scalability and international impact.
- Present a clear business model and growth strategy.
Startups at the idea, pre-seed, seed, and growth stages may apply, provided they meet the program's requirements.
Application Requirements
Interested startups must complete the official application form and provide:
- Startup name, location, and contact information.
- A one-sentence startup description (maximum 30 words).
- Current development stage.
- Problem statement (maximum 100 words).
- Solution overview (maximum 150 words).
- Summary of the founding team and key roles (maximum 100 words).
- Pitch deck in PDF or PowerPoint format.
- Social media profiles or press mentions, if available.
Only complete applications will be considered for selection.
Selection Process and Important Dates
- 31 October 2026: Application deadline
- 3 November 2026: Announcement of selected startups
- 11 November 2026: Startup pitch presentations at AI Horizon Conference 2026
Selected startups will have the opportunity to present their innovations during the conference in Lisbon.
The AIEI Startup Pitch Session 2026 offers AI entrepreneurs a platform to showcase their technologies, connect with influential industry stakeholders, and gain recognition within the international AI community. For startups seeking investor exposure, expert feedback, strategic partnerships, and greater visibility, the session provides an opportunity to demonstrate their potential and connect with professionals shaping the future of artificial intelligence.