Welcome to the Startup Grind Global Pitch Battle, where the world’s top emerging startups will face off and compete to claim the ultimate champion title and prizes all along the way.
Don’t miss the action! All Semi-Final and Final events are free to attend.
Think your startup has what it takes?
Apply now for the opportunity to compete in your local Chapter Pitch Battle, held between January 13-16, 2025.
Check your local Chapter page for exact dates and times.
All selected startups will be notified by their respective Chapter Director in the coming weeks, ahead of the battles.
We are looking for tech-driven and scalable companies.
Three regional Semi-Final battles will take place on Tuesday, January 21.
These events will feature ALL Chapter winners. Times are displayed below. Get your friends, families and compatriots to join, either to support your pitch or to support your Chapter’s winner!
Semi-Final 1: APAC + Middle East
Time: 7 PM AEDT / 1:30 PM IST / 12 PM UAE / 8 AM GMT
Attend for free
Semi-Final 2: Europe, LATAM + Africa
Time: 4 PM WAT / 3 PM GMT / 9 AM CST / 7 AM PST
Attend for free
Semi-Final 3: North America
Time: 7 PM GMT / 2 PM EST / 11 AM PST
Attend for free
Format
2-minute pitch per startup.
No pitch deck slides.
It all leads to one unforgettable finale! 🏆
The top 10 startups face off in a high-stakes competition before a panel of expert judges and a global audience.
Who Competes?
Three winners from each regional Semi-Final.
One SG Director’s Pick (the standout startup from all Semi-Finals).
Time:
9:30 PM IST / 4 PM GMT / 11 AM EST / 8 AM PST
Attend for free
Format:
3-minute pitch per startup.
One pitch deck slide allowed.
Host:
The Startup Hypeman
Judges:
Renowned VCs and industry leaders who will decide the first-ever SG Global Pitch Champion.
* Terms & Conditions. If crowned the Global Champion or Runner-Up, you’ll secure an exhibition package at the Startup Grind Conference, happening April 2025, in Silicon Valley (valued up to $5000 USD). By applying, you’re committing to attending the conference on April 28-30th, 2025 if you win.
Who can apply?
Tech-driven startups with scalable business models and an MVP or live product. Revenue is preferred but not required.
Will I be rejected?
Not at all! Applications are open to startups worldwide, spanning various industries and regions. If your local chapter isn’t listed, you can select “OTHER” in the dropdown menu. We’ll reach out if that chapter joins the competition in the coming weeks. Best of luck!
What are the key application dates?
Applications open December 2, 2024, and close January 10, 2025. Apply early to ensure your Chapter Director has time to review your submission.
When will I know if I’ve been selected?
Selected companies will be notified in early January 2025 ahead of the Chapter Battles.
Where can I find the application questions?
You can view all the application questions here.
Can I submit more than one application?
Founders should only submit one application per company.
What if I submitted my application incorrectly?
Don’t worry! Email our competition director at james.gee@startupgrind.com to reset your submission.
Does it cost anything to apply or participate?
No, applying and participating is entirely free. Startup Grind also takes no equity from startups.
Is my application confidential?
Yes, all applications are kept confidential and shared only within the Startup Grind HQ community.
What’s the format of the competition?
Do I need to pitch in English?
For the Semi-Finals and Final – Yes, all pitches must be delivered in English. This ensures fairness and consistency across the global competition. If you have concerns or need assistance, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help!
What are the dates of the competition?
Chapter Battles: January 13-16, 2025. Check the Chapter event pages for more details.
Semi Finals: All regional Semi-Finals are hosted virtually and can be attended for free on January 21, 2025.
The Final (January 23, 2025)
What do winners receive?
Do I need to attend the SG Conference if I become Champion or Runner Up?
Yes, attendance is expected. Travel and expenses are not included.
How will judges evaluate pitches?
Judges focus on scalability, innovation, impact, and pitch delivery.
What happens if I don’t win?
You’ll gain exposure, feedback, and connections to help your startup grow. We will also welcome you to join the Startup Grind community for FREE.
When will applicants be notified?
Notifications will likely occur in the first week of January, though exact timing may vary by Chapter.
Where can I learn more about the SG Conference?
Head on over to the main SG Conference page.
Still have questions? Reach out to your Chapter Director or contact HQ for further details.