The W.A. de Vigier Award 2027 is a Swiss startup funding competition organized by the W.A. de Vigier Foundation. The program supports innovative, ambitious, and growth-oriented startups across all industries, offering non-dilutive funding, increased visibility, and access to an established entrepreneurial network.
Foundation Background and Mission
Established in 1987, the W.A. de Vigier Foundation supports young entrepreneurs developing innovative business ideas in Switzerland. Its mission is to encourage entrepreneurship, stimulate business development, and provide direct financial support to promising companies.
The foundation emphasizes responsible leadership, innovation, business viability, and long-term growth potential.
Funding and Benefits
The 2027 award offers:
- Prize funding: Up to five awards of CHF 120,000 each.
- Funding type: Non-dilutive, non-repayable financial support without equity requirements.
- Visibility: National and international exposure through startup presentations and award events.
- Networking: Access to investors, experienced entrepreneurs, coaches, industry experts, and foundation alumni.
- Recognition: Increased credibility through participation in one of Switzerland's established startup competitions.
Eligibility Criteria
The competition welcomes startups across all sectors, subject to the following requirements:
- Location: Applicants must have their registered residence in Switzerland.
- Company structure: Startups must be incorporated in Switzerland as a for-profit AG or GmbH.
- Leadership: Applications should be submitted by the CEO or an equivalent strategic leader who participates personally in the selection process.
- Commitment: Applicants must be working full-time on their entrepreneurial project.
- Entrepreneurial profile: The program primarily supports young entrepreneurs in the earlier stages of their careers.
No specific investment round or revenue stage is prescribed.
Selection Process
Applications are evaluated based on the entrepreneur's profile, degree of innovation, societal relevance, technical and financial feasibility, market potential, and competitiveness.
The selection process includes an initial shortlist of 50 startups, followed by further evaluations to identify finalists and award recipients.
Historical Impact
According to the foundation's published figures:
- Established: 1987
- Total funding awarded since 1989: CHF 16.4 million
- Startups supported: 171
- Supported startups still operating: 81%
Application and Important Dates
- Applications open: 01 October 2026
- Application deadline: 04 January 2027 (GMT+1)
- Top 50 Selection Day: 09 March 2027
- Top 15 Presentation Days: 12–13 May 2027
- Award Ceremony: 10 June 2027
Applications can be submitted in English, German, or French through the official online application platform. Only fully submitted applications will be considered.
The W.A. de Vigier Award 2027 provides Swiss startups with an opportunity to secure non-dilutive funding, gain exposure to investors, and expand their professional networks. Interested entrepreneurs should review the official eligibility requirements and complete their applications before the deadline.