The W.A. de Vigier Award is a prestigious recognition program designed to support Swiss-based startups by providing significant financial backing and professional exposure. The foundation focuses on identifying responsible leaders who serve as role models while turning innovative ideas into viable, successful businesses. By offering non-dilutive prize money and access to an extensive professional network, the program aims to boost the credibility and growth trajectory of emerging entrepreneurs across various industries.
Program Benefits and Incentives
• Financial Support: Winners receive up to CHF 120,000 in prize money, with five such prizes awarded annually.
• Non-Dilutive Funding: The prize money is awarded with no strings attached and does not require giving up equity in the company.
• Global Visibility: Startups gain national and international exposure through live-streamed events, including the Top 50 pitch and the final Award Ceremony.
• Investor Access: The program's shortlist is frequently utilized by investors as a source for identifying high-potential startups.
• Professional Network: Participants gain access to a sterling network of coaches, experienced entrepreneurs, industry experts, and a supportive alumni community.
Eligibility and Participation Requirements
• Corporate Structure: Applicants must represent a for-profit company incorporated in Switzerland as a GmbH or AG.
• Leadership Role: The application must be submitted by the startup’s CEO or a Co-Founder holding an equivalent strategic leadership position.
• Career Stage: The award specifically targets young entrepreneurs in the earlier stages of their professional careers.
• Full-Time Commitment: Applicants must be dedicated to their startup project on a full-time basis.
• Residency: All applicants must have their registered residence in Switzerland.
• Inclusivity: The award is open to all outstanding entrepreneurs regardless of gender, ethnicity, race, or religion.
• Recurring Applications: Generally, recurring applications are not accepted unless significant changes and progress have occurred since the previous submission.
Assessment and Selection Criteria
• Entrepreneur Profile: The foundation places equal weight on the business idea and the personality and leadership qualities of the entrepreneur.
• Innovative Character: Evaluation of how unique and innovative the proposed solution is within its field.
• Societal Relevance: The degree to which the startup addresses an existing need and its overall impact on society.
• Technical and Financial Feasibility: Assessment of the project's realization potential from both a technical and financial standpoint.
• Success Potential: Consideration of the potential market size and the business's ability to create new jobs.
• Market Competitiveness: Analysis of the startup's ability to compete effectively in its target market.
Application Process and Timeline
• Submission Deadline: The application window closes on January 5, 2026.
• Language Options: Applications may be submitted in English, German, or French.
• Digital Platform: All documents and the mandatory selfie video must be submitted through the official application portal; email submissions are not accepted.
• Top 50 Pitch: Selected startups will pitch their ideas in Solothurn during February.
• Jury Selection: 15 startups will be chosen to meet the jury at the de Vigier Sommerhaus in Solothurn.
• Final Shortlist: A group of 10 startups will be selected to present at the Award Ceremony, where the five winners are announced.
Technical Submission Details
• Selfie Video: A mandatory component of the application used by the Selection Committee to evaluate the applicant's personality and communication style.
• Document Requirements: Applicants must provide a current commercial register extract and ensure all required fields are completed.
• Editing Capabilities: Founders can revisit, edit, and resubmit their application at any time before the final deadline.
• Data Privacy: Applicant data is securely stored and deleted following the conclusion of the application process, unless the dossier remains active.
The W.A. de Vigier Award remains a cornerstone of the Swiss startup ecosystem, providing a platform for founders to showcase their leadership and innovation. With the application deadline approaching on January 5, 2026, eligible entrepreneurs are encouraged to complete their digital dossiers to compete for significant non-dilutive funding and long-term networking opportunities.