$65,000 Prize Pool: IT Arena to Close Startup Competition Applications Soon

Ukrainian tech teams still have a chance to apply for the Startup Competition 2026, held as part of IT Arena — the largest technology event in Ukraine and Eastern Europe. Applications are open until September 4, 2026.

This year, the organizers will select 40 semifinalists, with only six teams advancing to the final. The winners will be announced on September 27 on the main stage of IT Arena in Lviv.

The Startup Competition offers a prize pool of up to $65,000. More than 150 investors from Ukraine, Europe, the United States, and the Middle East will also take part, representing a combined investment portfolio of $12.5 million.

In addition to competing for grant funding, participants will have the opportunity to present their solutions to the international tech community and receive practical feedback from industry experts. Finalists will also be able to showcase their products in the Startup Expo Zone.

Startups eligible to apply must:

• be registered in Ukraine as a sole proprietor or legal entity;
• have confirmed sales of at least $10,000 or have raised at least $25,000 in investments or grants;
• have a product at the MVP stage or beyond;
• have no Russian or Belarusian citizens on their team;
• be ready to present their project in person during IT Arena in Lviv.

In addition to the Startup Competition, IT Arena 2026 will feature three Expo zones: Partner Expo, Startup Expo, and Made in Ukraine Showcase. These spaces will provide a platform for Ukrainian tech products to be presented to an international audience.

Applications for the Startup Competition can be submitted on the official IT Arena website.

Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the European Commission can be held responsible for them.