Deadline: 20 September 2025
Entries are now open for the Youth Start-Up Competition to spotlight and support young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 25 who are developing bold, creative start-up ideas to help shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and competitive Europe.
Youth Start-Up Competition (YSC) is a flagship initiative within European SME Week.
Theme
- Start-up ideas that promote innovation and reflect EU values.
What’s in it for you?
- Visibility among Europe’s top policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs
- A chance to network, learn, and collaborate
- Attend high-profile workshops, panels, and networking sessions
- The winner is invited to the European Innovation Council (EIC) Summit 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 18 to 25 years old
- Residency: Any EU/associate countries to the SME pillar of the Single Market Programme
Selection Criteria
- Creativity: Is the idea new and inventive?
- Originality: Does it have the potential to capture attention and address real-world issues?
- Communication: Is the idea presented clearly and persuasively?
Selection Process
- A distinguished jury will evaluate all submissions and shortlist the top three finalists. The finalists will be invited to present their ideas at the SME Assembly 2025, which will take place in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 10 to 12 November 2025.
- During a dedicated YSC session at the Assembly, the finalists will pitch their start-up concepts live to both the jury and the audience. A combination of jury and audience votes will determine the winner, announced live on stage.
Submission Requirements
- Format
- Submit a short video (max. 3 minutes) which includes an explanation of your start-up concept and why it is relevant today.
- Provide a 3-page document that includes a short overview of your business model.
For more information, visit EC.
