The Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) is a global competition designed to empower entrepreneurs and foster innovation. It provides a platform for ambitious startups from around the world to connect, grow, and compete on an international stage, offering significant resources and opportunities.
Program Benefits
• Investor Access: Participants can connect with venture capitalists and corporate partners.
• Market Entry: The program offers soft-landing support for startups looking to scale in Saudi Arabia and the MENA Region.
• Mentorship: Entrepreneurs receive one-on-one sessions with established industry leaders.
• $1M Prizes: A total of $1 million in equity-free cash awards is distributed among 12 winners.
Competition Timeline
• Applications Open: Startups can apply globally across Idea, Early, Growth, and Artificial Intelligence tracks from November 2025 to May 2026.
• EWC Selection: Top startups are selected in July 2026 based on criteria such as innovation, scalability, and impact.
• Virtual Bootcamp: The top 250 selected startups participate in a virtual bootcamp in August 2026, which includes mentorship, pitch training, and investor preparation.
• EWC 100 Selection: In September 2026, the top 100 startups are chosen to advance to the Global Finals.
• Global Finals in Riyadh: Finalists compete live in Riyadh in November 2026 for a share of the $1 million prize pool.
Eligibility and Tracks
• Idea Stage: Open to entrepreneurs with a concept or prototype who are looking to validate their ideas and build their business.
• Early Stage: Designed for startups that have a product in the market, are generating early revenue, and are seeking to gain traction.
• Growth Stage: For established companies that are currently scaling their operations and expanding into new markets.
Prize Distribution
• Total Prize Pool: The competition offers a total of $1,000,000 in 100% equity-free cash prizes for the 2026 cohort.
• Growth Stage Prizes: Grand Prize of $160,000 and a Runner Up prize of $100,000.
• Early Stage Prizes: Grand Prize of $200,000, Runner Up prize of $150,000, 3rd Place prize of $90,000, and 4th Place prize of $50,000.
• Idea Stage Prizes: Grand Prize of $30,000 and a Runner Up prize of $20,000.
• AI Sub-Track Prizes: Specialized prizes of $50,000 each are awarded for innovation in AI Infrastructure & Platforms; Smart Manufacturing & Mobility; Energy, Water & Sustainable Systems; and Gaming & Immersive Tech.
The Entrepreneurship World Cup is structured to support startups at every phase of their development, from initial concept to global expansion. The competition provides a comprehensive pathway for founders to gain visibility, secure funding, and access critical resources for growth.