Applications are open for the World Cup Tech Challenge 2015, inviting startups from across the world to showcase their tech innovations in Silicon Valley.
The challenge – organised by SVForum – sees tech startups from across the world pitch for the “World Championship”, with applications invited to six categories of tech startups, namely, digital media – mobile; healthtech; next gen technology; edtech; enterprise software; and fintech.
24 startups from across the world will be selected for the competition final, by a panel of 35 expert judges. Four startups will be chosen in each category, and any given country can only be represented once in each category.
Each of the 24 startups will be asked to give a five minute pitch at the final to be held in Silicon Valley, followed by five minutes of questions from an expert panel. Competitors will also showcase in the expo hall.
The winners of each category will be chosen through a public vote, and will receive a range of prizes from the event’s sponsors, as well as secure meetings with top Silicon Valley investors.
The startup with the highest overall score will take home the 3D-printed trophy, as well as a cash prize, although the amount is yet to be announced.
The challenge is aimed at “pre-global startups” – those startups that have launched their products in their own local markets, and are ready for a global launch. As such, applicants must have a product or service available on their local market as of April 2015, but should not have expanded to other markets.
Launched in 2014, the first edition of the challenge brought together emerging tech companies from 35 countries across the world in Silicon Valley, to pitch to VCs, angels, corporate business development executives, prospective customers and partners, and the global tech media.
To apply, startups should fill out the online form, which includes the possibility to upload a two minute video pitch. Applications cost US$500.
Applications close on April 27, although submissions will be considered on a rolling basis, as such early applications are encouraged. The 24 selected startups will be announced no later than May 10.
