Accepting applications now!
JOIN THE OFFICIAL NL REGIONAL PITCH COMPETITION OF THE
STARTUP WORLD CUP
BEST APPLICATIONS
Get to pitch on stage for our 4000+ audience of investors, corporates, mentors, founders, and experts.
PRIZE
MONEY
Included for Amsterdam winner (t.b.a.).
AMSTERDAM WINNER
Goes to SF to directly compete in the world cup finals ($1M prize).
Get to pitch on stage for our 4000+ audience of investors, corporates, mentors, founders, and experts.
OPEN APPLICATION - PITCH DECK EVALUATION:
Jury of experts selects 50 best applicants. Now admitting applications!
SEMI-FINALS - VIRTUAL PITCH (FALL 2025):
50 selected startups compete online. Startups with a booth (vetted by experts) at FUTURE XPO 2025 get a fast-track to these semi-finals.
REGIONAL COMPETITION FINAL - LIVE IN AMSTERDAM:
Top startups pitch live on stage at FUTUREXPO for 4000+ relevant audience. Prize money included (t.b.a.)
HOW IT WORKS
GRAND FINALE - LIVE IN SAN FRANCISCO:
Champion advances to the global finals in San Francisco in 2026, and COMPETES FOR A $1M INVESTMENT PRIZE.
PITCH YOUR STARTUP TO BUILD CREDIBILITY AND AWARENESS
FUTUREXPO 2025 is the first time Startupbootcamp opens up its elite startup ecosystem for all startups. It is where startup founders meet opportunities.
INDUSTRY ACCESS/ EXPERTISE
Meet (corporate) experts from across the globe.
KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE
Meet mentors who can help you gain skills / share insights.
PEER
NETWORK
Meet other founders who are further in their journey, or share your insights and experience with likeminded founders.
INVESTORS
Meet up with one of the hundreds of VCs and private investors to ask for advice, or find an investment match at the event!
FAQ
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from early-stage and growth-stage startups and scale-ups with innovative solutions in AI & Web3, Energy & Climate, Food & AgriTech, Smart Space & Cities, and Sustainable FinTech. We are looking for startups from all over the world, however, if you make it to the final round, you'll need to be available to travel to Amsterdam on December 4th for the live pitch.
What is the format of the pitch?
We're doing things a bit differently with our "blitz" format! Instead of focusing on slides, we want to see your pitching and storytelling skills shine. In the online rounds, you'll have 2 minutes to pitch with a single background image, followed by a Q&A. If you reach the live final round, you'll have 1 minute to pitch, followed by a Q&A.
What are the application criteria?
1. A Clear Problem & Market Need – Show evidence of demand. 2. An Innovative Solution – Differentiate from existing alternatives. 3. Traction & Validation – Users, revenue, partnerships, or market interest. 4. Sustainability & Impact – Alignment with UN SDGs. 5. Strong Execution Potential – A capable team and a scalable strategy.
Do I need a pitch deck?
es, please provide a pitch deck with your application. You won't use it during your actual pitch, but we need it to evaluate your application.
How long should my pitch be?
How will pitches be evaluated?
Your potch must be 2 minutes in the online rounds, and 1 minute if you make it to the live final round in Amsterdam.
Pitches will be evaluated by a panel of experienced industry experts, investors, and/or entrepreneurs. They'll assess your pitch based on: • The clarity and impact of your problem and solution. • The innovation and differentiation of your technology or business model. • The strength of your traction and validation. • The potential for sustainability and positive impact. • The overall quality of your pitch delivery and Q&A responses. • The strength of your team, and business plan.
What are the prizes?
Winners of the FUTURE XPO Startup Pitch Battles may receive: • Extensive media coverage and global exposure. • Access to exclusive networking opportunities with investors and industry leaders. • In kind prizes (such as free booth space at future events). • Recognition as a top innovator on the FUTURE XPO stage. • Access to partner provided deals and/or services. The final winner’s package details will be released at a later date.