The Global Challenge is a renowned international startup competition organized by Hello Tomorrow since 2014. It is uniquely designed to address the needs of early-stage deep tech startups across all industries. 

The Challenge gives deep tech and science-based entrepreneurs around the globe a platform for their projects, providing opportunities for equity-free funding, global visibility and connections with key players in the deep tech ecosystem. To date, previous winners and finalists have already raised more than $3 billion in funding.

ELIGIBILITY:

Applications are entirely free and open until the September 22nd, 2024. 

They welcome startups that:

Are in the early-stage of development (from not yet incorporated startups up to series A or early commercialization stage)

Are based on a new technology, a scientific discovery or a complex engineering process.

Have a scientific validation of their claim, a proof of concept, a prototype, or are in the process of producing one.

Have a team of at least 2 people. 

Are not a subsidiary or spin-off of an existing company.

Foresee an economically viable application on the market within 15 years.

Have the potential to have a strong impact on the industry targeted, and on society or the environment in general.

BENEFIT:

Around 800 startups will be selected to receive the “Deep Tech Pioneer” global recognition and get exclusive access to: 

an international deep tech network to tap into opportunities for visibility, funding and connections

our Investor Day to engage in one-on-one meetings with 300+ top-tier VCs and CVCs 

our Global Summit to interact with sector-specific and invite-only industry leaders, investors, accelerators and fellow founders.

80 finalists (7 finalists per track and 7 for the Emerging Pioneers Prize) will be selected to pitch in front of a select audience of 400 people to compete for equity-free prize money:

€100K for the Grand Winner,

€25K for 2nd place and

€25K for the Emerging Pioneers Prize.

The 11 Track Winners will also receive in-kind prizes in the form of customized coaching sessions provided by our experts and personal introductions with relevant investors & potential partners and clients. 

Additional “Corporate Tracks” co-organized with our corporate partners will provide more pitching opportunities and customized prizes.