Startups and entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey are invited to apply for the Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) 2026 — the world’s most ambitious entrepreneurial competition, offering a total cash prize pool of $1,000,000 in fully equity-free awards across 12 winners, with the Global Finals taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The Entrepreneurship World Cup is a global platform that connects entrepreneurs with the investors, mentors, and markets they need to grow. Beyond the prize money, participants gain access to a powerful ecosystem of venture capital firms, corporate partners, and industry leaders — making EWC one of the most valuable competitions an entrepreneur can enter regardless of where they place.
The 2026 edition culminates at the EWC Global Finals in Riyadh, where finalists from around the world will compete on an international stage before a global audience of investors and decision-makers.
Why Participate?
Selected participants and finalists will benefit from:
- Investor Access — Direct connections with venture capitalists and corporate partners actively looking to fund and collaborate
- Market Entry Support — Soft-landing assistance for startups looking to scale into Saudi Arabia and the MENA region
- Mentorship — One-on-one sessions with experienced industry leaders
- A Global Stage — The opportunity to compete at the EWC Global Finals in Riyadh
- Equity-Free Cash Prizes — Win without giving up a single share of your company
Who Can Apply?
The EWC 2026 is open to startups at all stages. There are three dedicated tracks:
- Idea Stage — Concept Validation: For entrepreneurs with a concept or early prototype who are looking to validate their idea and begin building. Prizes: Grand Prize: $30,000 | Runner Up: $20,000
- Early Stage — MVP & Traction For startups with a product already in market, generating early revenue, and seeking to build momentum and traction. Prizes: Grand Prize: $200,000 | Runner Up: $150,000 | 3rd Place: $90,000 | 4th Place: $50,000
- Growth Stage — Scaling & Revenue For established companies that are scaling operations and expanding into new markets. Prizes: Grand Prize: $160,000 | Runner Up: $100,000
