>>venture>> stands as Switzerland’s premier startup competition, dedicated to empowering visionary entrepreneurs and transforming innovative concepts into viable businesses. Since its inception in 1997, the program has provided a platform for early-stage startups and nonprofits to access critical resources, including substantial non-dilutive funding, expert mentorship, and a vast network of industry leaders and investors. The competition is designed to support the next generation of innovators as they tackle society's most significant challenges through bold ideas and persistent effort.
Program Overview and Industry Verticals
• The competition is open to individuals and teams at any stage of their entrepreneurial journey, from initial launch to early-stage operations.
• Participants must operate within one of six specific industry verticals: Business & Finance, Consumer Solutions, Industrials & Engineering, Pharma & Biotech, Medtech & Healthcare, or Social & Environmental Impact.
• The initiative focuses on fostering innovation across the Swiss startup ecosystem by providing a structured path from idea to market.
• Applicants are encouraged to utilize the provided Playbook and Guidelines to craft a winning startup plan.
Prize Structure and Financial Awards
• Winners of each of the six industry verticals receive CHF 50,000 in cash and a dedicated business consulting package from McKinsey & Company.
• Finalists who do not win their vertical are awarded CHF 10,000 each.
• The overall grand prize winner receives an additional CHF 100,000, bringing the potential total to CHF 150,000 in non-dilutive funding.
• The Board selects a CHF 50,000 Spotlight Award winner to recognize exceptional potential.
• An Audience Award of CHF 10,000 is determined by a live vote from attendees at the award ceremony.
• Early applicants who submit by January 30 are entered into an exclusive Early-Bird Draw for a chance to win CHF 1,000.
Mentorship, Networking, and Visibility
• Participants gain access to an extensive network of mentors, investors, and top business executives in Switzerland.
• Semi-finalists in the top 10 of each vertical receive personalized mentorship from industry experts.
• All semi-finalists are eligible for professional pitch training sessions led by McKinsey & Company experts and seasoned investors.
• The program provides significant media exposure and opportunities to make valuable contacts that shape the future of the participating businesses.
• All applicants receive personalized feedback from the expert review team to help refine their startup plans.
Key Dates and Application Timeline
• Registration and startup plan submission period: October 1, 2025, through February 25, 2026 (23:59 CET).
• Zürich Experts 1:1 Feedback Session: January 21, 2026, offering 20-minute slots for instant expert feedback.
• Patent Search Workshop (Zurich): January 29, 2026, hosted by the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property.
• Patent Search Workshop (Lausanne): February 5, 2026, providing expert guidance on conducting independent patent searches.
• Expert review of applications: March 2026.
• Mentorship phase for selected participants: April to June 2026.
• Pitch training sessions: May 2026.
• Final pitches and Award Ceremony: June 15, 2026.
This competition represents a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs to accelerate their growth within the Swiss innovation landscape. By offering a combination of financial backing, professional consulting, and high-level networking, the program assists founders in navigating the complexities of the early-stage startup environment and achieving long-term success. Interested parties are invited to review the requirements and submit their startup plans before the February deadline to participate in this prestigious annual event.