Want to be crowned Startup of the Year?

Join the Startup Grind All-Star Pitch Battle — the global showdown for early-stage startups. Applications are open now!

We’re on the hunt for the best startups from every Startup Grind chapter around the world. Local winners will advance to the global stage, pitching in front of top Silicon Valley VCs for a chance to claim the title of All-Star Champion—plus win prizes, visibility, and investor connections along the way.

⚡️ With 87+ chapters competing and over 1,000 startups already applied, the race is on. Will you step up?

How to Join

• As a founder: Apply to pitch (Pre-Seed to Series A, or bootstrapped with traction, all industries welcome).
• As an attendee: RSVP and cheer on your city’s top talent.
• As a partner or VC: Get involved as a judge, sponsor, or featured partner.

🎤 Fast Track Your Pitch

Think you’re ready to win it all? We’re offering 3 exclusive Pitch Tickets that guarantee a spot in the competition. Email  marc(at)startupgrind(dot)com to snag one, then fill out the application form to lock it in.

🌐 Other spots are limited: 7 additional startups will be selected in the coming week. Apply now to be considered. Only 5 finalists will be notified one week before the event and must confirm with a startup ticket.

🎟 Tickets are free!

Event Format:

• Virtual
• Pitch: 5-minute pitch + 10 slides
• City Finals: One winner from each city advances.

Virtual Semi-Finals by Industry: September 24 (free RSVP).

Global Finals: October 1st at the Startup Grind AI Summit — in front of 5,000+ tech leaders, VCs, and founders.
Winners receive prizes including investor meetings, expo space at SG Conference 2026, and more.

Don't miss our awesome fireside chat with our AI VC!

Expect real feedback, valuable connections, and insights that will last long after the event. Whether you’re building, investing, or just curious, you’ll find your community here.