Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026
One of the world's largest startup pitch competitions — $1,000,000 in cash prizes across Idea, Early, and Growth stages, open to founders globally.
- Funding amount
- ₹9Cr (competition)
- Funding type
- Competition
- Provider
- Global Entrepreneurship Network (NGO)
- Application deadline
- Closed (31 May 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026 (EWC 2026) is a global startup pitch competition co-hosted by the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) and Monshaat, Saudi Arabia's Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority. Since its launch in 2019, over 420,000 entrepreneurs from 191+ countries have participated, with more than $6.5 million in cumulative cash prizes awarded. Indian founders and startups are fully eligible. The competition has three tracks: Idea Stage (concept validation), Early Stage (MVP & traction), and Growth Stage (scaling & revenue). Prize amounts range from $20,000 to $200,000 per category. Finalists get global exposure, mentorship, and the chance to pitch at the Global Finals in Riyadh. The total cash prize pool is $1,000,000. Applications close May 31, 2026.
Highlights
- Open to all; global entrepreneurship pitch competition with $1M prize pool.
- Three tracks: Idea, Early, and Growth stages.
- Cash prizes from $20,000 to $200,000 per track.
- Indian founders and startups fully eligible.
Who can apply
Open to founders and startups at any stage globally — no geographic or sector restrictions. Indian founders and startups are fully eligible.
Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
The most recent application window for Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026 closed on 31 May 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
- Total cash prize pool of $1,000,000, with individual awards up to $200,000.
- Idea Stage: Grand Prize $30,000, Runner Up $20,000.
- Early Stage: Grand Prize $200,000, Runner Up $150,000, 3rd Place $90,000, 4th Place $50,000.
- Growth Stage: Grand Prize $160,000, Runner Up $100,000.
- Finalists receive global exposure and access to an international network of investors and mentors.
- Opportunity to pitch at the Global Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Access to a worldwide startup ecosystem.
About the provider
Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026 is offered by Global Entrepreneurship Network, a non-profit organisation. It is delivered directly by Global Entrepreneurship Network as a competition. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026, keep the following documents ready:
- A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
- Company registration documents and PAN
- Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
- Recent financial statements or projections
- Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available
Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.
Who this is best for
Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹9Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered?
The total cash prize pool is $1,000,000. Individual awards go up to $200,000 across three stages: Idea Stage (Grand Prize $30,000), Early Stage (Grand Prize $200,000), and Growth Stage (Grand Prize $160,000).
What is the application deadline?
Applications close on May 31, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
The competition is open to founders and startups at any stage globally — including Indian founders and startups. There are no geographic or sector restrictions.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration?
No, DPIIT or MSME registration is not required.
Is this a grant, loan, or equity program?
It is a pitch competition — the prizes are cash awards with no equity taken.
What documents are typically needed?
You will need to submit your startup details and a pitch. Specific documents may vary by track.
How and where do I apply?
Apply through the official EWC 2026 registration link: https://ewc26.short.gy/GEN
What are the tracks and their prizes?
Idea Stage (concept validation): Grand Prize $30,000, Runner Up $20,000. Early Stage (MVP & traction): Grand Prize $200,000, Runner Up $150,000, 3rd Place $90,000, 4th Place $50,000. Growth Stage (scaling & revenue): Grand Prize $160,000, Runner Up $100,000.
Who offers Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026?
Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026 is offered by Global Entrepreneurship Network, a non-profit organisation. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
More funding from Global Entrepreneurship Network
Global Entrepreneurship Network runs another program listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026
Not sure Entrepreneurship World Cup 2026 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
Questions from founders
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