FAQ

Startups across all industries and development stages are welcome to apply, provided they are legally registered entities.

The Startup World Cup features over 50 regional competitions across continents including North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Winners of these regionals will advance to the final event in Bangalore, details of which can be found on the Grand Finale Page.

Regional winners are awarded complimentary access to the Networking Party and Grand Finale. Although flights might be sponsored by regional partners, Startup World Cup does not cover airfare to Bangalore.

The winner of the Grand Finale will receive a $1M investment, potentially in exchange for equity or as a convertible note, depending on their financial stage. They will also gain global media exposure and additional prizes from sponsors, such as $30k in legal services and a Salesforce software package offered last year.

Selections vary by region, with typically 10 to 20 startups chosen among the applicants.

Each startup is given 4 minutes to pitch their idea, followed by a 2-minute Q&A session with the judges.

Announcements are made according to the regional competition schedules. Only finalists will be notified.

While an optional video can help the selection committee understand more complex startups, it does not necessarily increase your chances of being selected.

Yes, you are encouraged to apply to the nearest regional competition available.

Check out the pitch deck template [here].

Tweeting is optional but can influence the judging process. Be sure to use #SWL2024 and #STARTUPWORLDLEAGUE to ensure visibility.

There are no restrictions regarding previously raised capital; all startups are encouraged to apply.

Your application will be evaluated by a committee comprised of venture capitalists, incubator representatives, and angel investors.

We require a nominal application fee of $75 for each startup. This fee helps support the administrative and operational aspects of the selection process, ensuring that we can continue to provide a high-quality experience for all participants.

Startups may apply to more than one regional, provided they have not been declared a regional champion.

No, travel expenses for attending the Grand Finale are not covered by Startup World League.

No, all finalists will pitch on Day 1. Those who advance to the final round will pitch again on Day 2 on the main stage.