Most startup competitions promise exposure.
Very few can actually introduce you to investors, global mentors, international markets, and up to $1 million in equity-free cash prizes—all through a single application.
That’s exactly what the Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) 2026 is designed to do. More than just a pitch competition, it’s one of the world’s largest startup support programs, connecting founders from 191+ countries with the resources they need to grow faster.
If you’re building a startup—whether it’s still an idea or already generating revenue—this is an opportunity worth paying attention to.
More Than a Competition, It’s a Global Launchpad
Since launching in 2019, the Entrepreneurship World Cup has become one of the biggest startup competitions in the world.
The numbers speak for themselves:
- 420,000+ entrepreneurs have participated.
- Founders from 191+ countries have joined.
- More than $6.5 million has been awarded in cash prizes.
- Over $150 million worth of in-kind support has been unlocked for participating startups.
Unlike many competitions that focus only on winners, EWC is designed to support founders throughout the journey with mentorship, investor introductions, training, and global networking.
What You’ll Get If You’re Selected
Winning isn’t the only reason to apply.
Participants can gain access to:
- Equity-free cash prizes worth up to $1 million
- One-on-one mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs
- Direct introductions to global investors and venture capital firms
- Pitch training to strengthen your fundraising story
- International exposure through one of the world’s biggest startup platforms
- Soft-landing support for startups looking to expand into Saudi Arabia and the MENA region
- The opportunity to pitch live at the EWC Global Finals in Riyadh
For many startups, these connections end up being more valuable than the prize money itself.
Who Should Apply?
One of the biggest advantages of EWC is that it isn’t limited to funded startups.
There are dedicated tracks for founders at different stages:
- Idea Stage – For founders validating an idea or building their first prototype.
- Early Stage – For startups with an MVP and early traction.
- Growth Stage – For companies already generating revenue and scaling.
- AI Sub-Tracks – Special categories for startups working in areas like AI infrastructure, sustainability, manufacturing, gaming, and emerging technologies.
Whether you’re a solo founder or leading a growing team, there’s likely a category that fits your startup.
Why Founders Shouldn’t Ignore Opportunities Like This
Many founders spend months trying to get in front of investors.
Competitions like the Entrepreneurship World Cup bring investors, mentors, corporate partners, and media attention into one ecosystem.
Even if you don’t finish in the top positions, you’ll still benefit from:
- Valuable feedback on your startup
- Improved pitching skills
- International visibility
- Networking with founders from around the world
- Potential partnerships and customer opportunities
Sometimes, the conversations you have during these programs become more valuable than the final prize itself.
How to Apply
Applications for the Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026 are now open.
If you’re serious about building a globally scalable startup, it’s worth reviewing the eligibility criteria and submitting your application early, as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Apply here: https://entrepreneurshipworldcup.com/
Don’t wait until the deadline.
The earlier you apply, the more time you’ll have to prepare for the next stages if you’re shortlisted.
Looking for More Startup Opportunities?
Thousands of founders miss grants, accelerators, startup competitions, and funding opportunities simply because they never hear about them.
At Tepi AI, we help founders discover the opportunities that actually matter—from global competitions like the Entrepreneurship World Cup to grants, incubators, accelerators, fellowships, and investor programs.
Stay ahead of other founders by exploring more startup opportunities at https://tepiai.com.
