Bring your startup to LEAP 2026

LEAP offers a wealth of opportunities for tech startups to get seen, learn invaluable skills, position your business for investment – and win a share of $1 million in prize money in our annual Rocket Fuel Startup Competition. 

Applications for the Startup & Scale Program 2026 have just opened. This is your chance to immerse yourself in the deeper levels of LEAP. You’ll go beyond the exhibition itself to set your startup up for success. 

You should bring your startup to LEAP if: 

• You’re confident you have an outstanding idea or product that has the potential to gain real traction.
• You’re ready to grow your network with key industry leaders, mentors, and peers.
• You’re looking for something in particular to take your startup to the next level – such as mentorship, a partner, investment, or skills development.
• You want to be a part of a truly dynamic tech community that can help power your business into the future and keep you feeling inspired. 

Startup opportunities exclusively at LEAP 

LEAP’s Startup & Scale Program allows you to share your story with the world. Your pitch deck lands in the inbox of more than 2,000 investors, representing over USD $22.2 trillion in assets under management. 

With 200,000+ attendees from around the world, and 600+ startups, you'll have access to unique opportunities to build your network and promote your business. 

Startups selected for the Startup Program are the only ones that are able to set meetings with investors, and some of LEAP’s industry-leading keynote speakers. 

Specific benefits available only to our selected, pre-vetted startups include: 

• Matchmaking to connect you with your ideal investors or partners (our investor attendees include angel investors, venture capitalists, and sovereign wealth fund representatives).
• Mentorship sessions that enable you to hack the issues you’re facing in your company with the support of leading experts in a focused environment.
• Masterclasses to expand your skillsets as a founder and transform your ability to capture investor attention.
• Bootcamp sessions to help you maximise your time at LEAP, giving you insider knowledge on how to pitch, network, set your schedule, and spread your team out to make sure you achieve your goals. 

The Rocket Fuel Startup Competition 

Our startup competition is backed by a $1 million prize fund – and if you’re selected for the LEAP Startup & Scale Program, you’ll be eligible to enter. 

Chosen startups will pitch in front of a live audience and an expert panel. It’ll test your nerve and your pitching skills; but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of opportunity to be seen by a highly engaged audience of tech industry leaders, investors, and innovators. 

Winners will be chosen in an array of categories, including: 

1. The LEAP Award: For the strongest, most outstanding startup across the whole competition.
2. The Into New Worlds Award: For a company on the verge of changing life as we know it.
3. The Tech for Humanity Award: For a startup serving as a catalyst for sustainable and positive change.
4. The Shooting Star Award: For a booming early-stage startup.
5. The Scaling Star Award: For the strongest growth startup with unicorn potential. 

Pierre Vero (Founder of KYO NOVA) said: 

“LEAP wasn't just an event – it was a launchpad that catapulted my startup onto the global stage. Standing there, presenting my mobile application alongside the world's top innovators, I realised this was exactly where groundbreaking ideas come to life. 

“For startups dreaming big, LEAP isn't just another conference – it's your moment to shine on a truly world-class platform. Don't just attend, come ready to transform your vision into global impact.” 

Take your startup to LEAP 2026 

If you want to join the Startup Program in 2026, now’s the time to start your application. Get clear on what makes your startup matter and catapult your business to the next level. 

Head to the Startup Portal now.