Application Deadline: January 9, 2026
LOCATION: USA
Imagine Cup is where student founders turn bold ideas into solutions trusted by organizations worldwide. At every step, you’ll have access to Microsoft’s AI technologies, tailored guidance, and connections that help you refine your product and grow as a founder. Focus on a challenge aligned with one of the five Imagine Cup categories, or tackle a different one altogether. Join the next generation of startup founders solving real problems through technology, powered by Microsoft tools, mentorship, and a global community.
ELIGIBILITY:
Two Paths. One Goal: Build What Matters: Imagine Cup offers two tailored paths, Scale and Launch, to meet student founders where they are. Whether you’re gaining traction or just starting to grow, you’ll build with Microsoft AI technologies and advance with expert mentorship, resources, and a global community.
Scale: For student-led startups with traction. If you’ve already secured users, revenue, or capital—whether through any amount of dilutive funding or no more than $5,000,000 USD in combined dilutive or external, non-dilutive funding—the Scale track is for you. You’ll focus on refining product-market fit and preparing to scale your solution into leading organizations. The top 3 Scale teams will secure their spot at the World Championship.
Launch: For early-stage student teams building with potential. If you’re developing an AI-powered solution but not yet ready for Scale, the Launch track helps you take the next step. Whether you’ve built a prototype, tested an MVP, or are validating your market fit, this track gives you the support to grow with clarity and confidence. Eligible teams have not received any amount of dilutive funding or have secured no more than $100,000 USD in external, non-dilutive funding. The winner is announced after the semifinals.
After you register, what’s next?
Unlock up to $5,000 USD in Azure credits to experiment, test, and refine your Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
Build your team. Up to four (4) students are allowed per team, and everyone must register on the Imagine Cup website.
Join the Sprint to Imagine Cup, a learning experience designed to explore what’s possible with Microsoft’s platforms and help you prepare a strong submission.
Follow them on social media to stay up-to-date on tips and competition deadlines:
Looking for inspiration for your startup idea? Learn about past competitors and find resources below!
Self-paced learning on using Microsoft AI for your startup
Students aged 18+ are eligible to participate. Some restrictions apply, please see the full requirements in the official rules.
You can create any solution you are passionate about, but it must include at least two (2) Microsoft AI services and consider diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. Details about the requirements can be found in the official rules.
Each team can have a maximum of four (4) members. All must be students. Create and manage your team.
Submissions should include a pitch deck, recorded pitch, and demo video, all addressing the judging criteria outlined in the official rules.
BENEFIT:
Scale Prizing: $100,000 USD
Private mentorship session with Microsoft Chairman and CEO, Satya Nadella
Opportunities for deeper partnership with Microsoft for Startups.
Launch Prizing: $50,000 USD
Continued visibility and support from Microsoft
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