Deadline:14Th July 2026
The Startup Challenge of The Gap in Between is an international call designed to boost entrepreneurship as a driver of social and environmental transformation. They seek to identify and showcase startups that are developing innovative solutions to today’s most urgent challenges.
Through this challenge, we not only connect impact-driven entrepreneurs with resources, capital, and strategic allies, but also place them at the center of a global conversation about the future we aim to build: fairer, more inclusive, regenerative, and collaborative.
In 2026, the challenge focuses on five key innovation verticals:
1. Climate Tech & Energy
2. Smart Cities & Mobility
3. AgriTech & Food Systems
4. Health, Wellbeing & Care
5. Social & Economic Systems
Prizes and Benefits
Startups selected to participate in the TGIB Startup Challenge will access different benefits depending on the stage they reach within the process.
- The 50 selected startups will be invited to take part in The Gap in Between event as part of the Startup Challenge cohort. These startups will have access to the event spaces, curated networking opportunities, and structured matchmaking with corporates, investors and other ecosystem actors. Their participation is designed to facilitate relevant connections, visibility within the TGIB ecosystem and engagement in thematic and domain-based sessions.
- From this group, the 20 semifinalist startups will receive additional exposure as part of the core Startup Challenge experience. These startups will have a dedicated physical presence (booth) at the event and will participate in the official pitch sessions evaluated by the jury. Their role within the Challenge is more visible and focused, positioning them at the centre of the Startup Challenge narrative.
- Following the pitch sessions, 1 startup will be selected as the winner of the TGIB Startup Challenge and will receive a 10,000 € cash prize, together with strategic visibility and recognition within The Gap in Between ecosystem.
- In addition, startups participating in the Challenge will become part of the broader TGIB network, enabling continued connection with relevant ecosystem actors and access to future opportunities aligned with their stage and focus.
Eligibility
To apply to the TGIB Startup Challenge, startups must:
- Be legally incorporated at the time of application.
- Have a validated MVP or product in the market, beyond the idea stage.
- Operate at an Early or Growth stage, with demonstrated capacity to execute and grow.
- Demonstrate technical and commercial viability, with a clear value proposition.
- Have a committed founding team, with relevant experience or complementary skills.
- Fit within one of TGIB’s impact tracks, as defined in the Challenge.
- Generate positive and measurable social and/or environmental impact as part of their core.
Show relevance for real-world adoption, either through market traction, pilots, partnerships, or clear use cases with corporates, institutions or communities.
For more information and application.