SLINGSHOT 2026 marks the 10th edition of Asia's leading deep tech startup pitching competition, inviting trailblazing innovators to scale their ventures from Singapore's dynamic innovation arena. This anniversary year offers a platform for startups to experiment, test, and propel their businesses into the global spotlight. Participants will have the opportunity to showcase groundbreaking solutions to a worldwide audience from October 27-29 in Singapore, competing for attractive grant prizes and connecting with investors, industry leaders, and ecosystem partners.
Program Highlights
Startups competing for a spot among the Top 50 Global Startups will gain access to Singapore's vibrant ecosystem and a range of opportunities designed to accelerate growth.
• IMMERSE: Dive deep into Singapore’s startup scene with exclusive site visits and expert-led sessions.
• CONNECT: Engage with world-class investors, accelerators, and leading corporates from across the globe.
• COLLABORATE: Team up with industry trailblazers to co-innovate and scale solutions to the next level.
• PITCH: Take center stage at the SLINGSHOT Finals for the chance to win significant grant prizes.
Competition Domains
The competition is organized across five key domains, seeking innovative solutions in the following areas:
• Advanced Computing and Intelligence: Covering Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Agentic & Autonomous Systems, Quantum Computing & Quantum Technologies, Neuromorphic / Brain-inspired Computing, High-Performance & Edge Computing, Quantum Hardware & Control Systems, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Natural Language Processing & Conversational AI.
• Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Systems: Including Advanced & Additive Manufacturing (3D/4D printing), Robotics, Automation & Autonomous Systems, Smart Factories & Cyber-physical Systems, Industrial IoT, Sensors & Control Systems, Industrial AI & Digital Twins, Advanced Production Processes, and Supply Chain, Logistics & Resilient Manufacturing Systems.
• Digital Technologies and Security: Focusing on Cybersecurity & Privacy-Enhancing Technologies, Data Infrastructure, Big Data & Analytics Engines, Digital Identity, Cryptography & Trust Technologies, Secure Communications & Networks, FinTech, LegalTech, Consumer Technology, Interactive Tech (AR/VR/XR), and Smart City Systems.
• Environment, Energy and Sustainability: Seeking solutions in Climate Mitigation & Adaptation, Carbon Capture, Utilisation & Storage (CCUS), Clean & Renewable Energy, Energy Storage & Batteries, Smart Grids & Energy Management, Hydrogen & Alternative Fuels, Green Buildings & Sustainable Construction, Waste Management & Circular Economy, Advanced & Sustainable Materials, AgriTech & FoodTech, and Water Treatment & Environmental Engineering.
• Health and Biomedical: Encompassing Biotechnology & Synthetic Biology, Medtech & Medical Devices, Nanomedicine & Drug Delivery, Regenerative Medicine & Cell/Gene Therapy, Diagnostics (molecular, imaging, AI-enabled), Digital Health & Biomedical Data Platforms, and Advanced Diagnostics (including quantum-enhanced imaging).
Prizes and Opportunities
• Top 3 Winners: The Grand Winner will receive a S$400,000 Startup SG Grant Prize, the 1st Runner Up will receive a S$300,000 Startup SG Grant Prize, and the 2nd Runner Up will receive a S$200,000 Startup SG Grant Prize.
• Top 10 Global Startups: Each of the Top 10 Global Startups will receive a S$80,000 Startup SG Grant Prize.
• Top 50 Global Startups: Each of the Top 50 Global Startups will receive a sponsored trip to Singapore for one founder to participate in the Physical Immersion programme, an exclusive invitation to compete at the SLINGSHOT 2026 Domain Finals at SWITCH, a complimentary SWITCH 2026 exhibition poster, and eligibility for EntrePass for international applicants, subject to meeting criteria.
Key Dates and Timeline
• GLOBAL CALL (Registration): March 6 - June 30, 2026. Applicants must register on the platform and submit their presentation.
• PHYSICAL IMMERSION: October 22 - 24, 2026. The Top 50 Global Startups will immerse in Singapore’s startup ecosystem and network with local partners.
• DOMAIN FINALS & GRAND FINALS: October 27 - 29, 2026. The Top 50 will pitch live at SWITCH on October 27 and 28. The Top 10 will be selected to pitch at the Grand Finals on October 29.
As a launchpad for innovative startups worldwide, SLINGSHOT 2026 provides a unique opportunity to connect with a global network and secure resources for growth. Deep tech startups with game-changing solutions are encouraged to review the competition details and consider participating to launch their ventures onto the global stage from Singapore.