Applications are now open for the 2026 edition of RAISE the STAKES, a global competition designed as a launchpad for the next generation of leaders in artificial intelligence. Recognized as one of the world’s largest AI startup competitions, the event will take place on July 8–9, 2026, at Le Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, France. The program offers unmatched visibility and a prize pool valued at over €10 million for early-stage AI startups.
Program Highlights
• Prize Pool: Compete for over €10 million in prizes, funding, and strategic resources.
• Pitching Opportunities: The top 10 startups will pitch live, with the top 3 finalists presenting on the main stage.
• Global Exposure: Showcase your startup in front of 9,000+ AI leaders, investors, and international media.
• Strategic Connections: Build relationships with top-tier investors, corporates, and ecosystem leaders.
• High-Quality Deal Flow: Join a highly competitive pool with over 1,500 applicants in previous editions.
Eligibility Criteria
• Funding Stage: Open to startups at Pre-seed, Seed, and Series A stages.
• Maximum Funding: Applicants must have raised no more than €10 million in total funding.
• Team Requirement: Startups must be registered legal entities with at least two team members or co-founders.
• Sector Focus: Sector-agnostic, but AI must be a core component of the product or solution.
• Product Stage: Startups should have a live product or strong MVP with early traction or validation.
• Geographic Scope: Open globally; at least one founder must attend the finals in Paris.
Competition Timeline
• January 8, 2026: Applications open
• June 10, 2026: Application deadline
• June 17, 2026: Top 100 startups announced
• June 24, 2026: Top 10 finalists selected
• July 8, 2026: Finalists pitch at the event
• July 9, 2026: Top 3 pitch on the main stage
Evaluation and Jury
• Jury Composition: Leading AI experts, Tier 1 investors, and successful founders.
• Evaluation Criteria: Startups are assessed based on team strength, product differentiation, traction, and market opportunity.
Application and Post-Event Engagement
• Application Process: Rolling review process via the Dealum platform. Applicants can import existing profiles or submit new company information.
• Application Fee: Any applicable administrative fees are specified within the application form.
• Post-Summit Support: Continued exposure, investor introductions, and opportunities to engage with the RAISE ecosystem beyond the event.
Opportunities for Involvement
• Sponsorship: Position your brand at the forefront of AI innovation.
• Jury Participation: Join as an expert to evaluate and connect with top startups.
• Prize Contribution: Offer tailored rewards and engage directly with high-potential founders.
• Deal Flow Access: Gain exclusive insights into top AI startups for partnerships and investment opportunities.
This competition offers a unique opportunity for early-stage AI startups to gain global visibility, connect with key industry players, and compete for substantial resources. Founders are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and apply before the deadline to secure their place in Paris.