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NL Startup Competition 2026

The competition continues. Pre-register now for NL Startup Competition 2026 edition and take your startup to the next level with funding, exposure and valuable connections.

Take your startup to the next level!

The first and second editions of NL Startup Competition brought together ambitious startups tackling social impact, energy transition, digital innovation and sustainability.

After winning the 2025 edition, ExCulture was selected for the global Top 100 of the Entrepreneurship World Cup, with more to come. In 2024, our winner ChatLicense secured 8th place in the global finals, joined by fellow NLSC participants Pal and Kumasi Drinks.

These are just a few examples of how far the journey can go. We’re proud to support startups as they grow beyond the national level… and we’re getting ready for what’s next!

See this year’s winners and pre-register for our next edition!

Pre-register now!

Three Innovation Categories

We support startups across three critical sectors shaping the future of the Netherlands and beyond.

Port & Maritime

Revolutionizing logistics, shipping, and port operations through digital transformation and sustainable practices.

Energy & Climate

Accelerating the transition to renewable energy and developing climate-positive technologies for a sustainable future.

Health

Transforming healthcare industry through digital health, medical devices, and patient-centered innovations.

Do you fit one of the categories? Pre-register now for 3rd edition of NL Startup Competition and pitch your startup!

NL Startup Competition 2025

NL Startup Competition is a national initiative that supports and accelerates startups from across the Netherlands. Through expert-led sessions, pitch opportunities, and access to a growing network, the competition gives early-stage founders a platform to share their work, gain exposure, and access the support they need to grow.

In its second edition, NL Startup Competition brought together over 120 startups. 16 were selected to take part in two preparation workshops and a live pitch event during Upstream Festival in Rotterdam. Each team pitched in one of four focus areas: Social, Energy & Environment, Digital and Circular.

Winners of 2025

We are proud to announce the winners of the second edition of NL Startup Competition.

Drive positive change and tackle pressing societal issues head-on.

Transform industries with cutting-edge tech solutions that streamline processes and improve experiences.

Lead the charge towards a sustainable future with innovative energy solutions.

Promote environmental health by rethinking how we use and reuse resources.

“At Erasmus Enterprise, we acknowledge the transformative potential of every startup. The NL Startup Competition is not only offering prizes, but also invaluable mentorship and support. We are excited to be a part of this initiative that puts a spotlight on innovative minds and steers their ideas towards impactful outcomes, all while staying true to the Erasmian Way.”

"De NL Start-Up Competition is een belangrijk nieuw initiatief dat innovatieve startups een podium biedt om oplossingen te ontwikkelen die cruciale maatschappelijke uitdagingen aanpakken."

"We can't wait to have the inaugural edition of the NL Startup Competition at Upstream Festival this year. This competition is the perfect opportunity for startups to put their pitching skills to the test in front of an audience of national and international investors, founders, innovative corporates and other stakeholders. Get ready for a blend of innovation, networking, and game-changing pitches that will leave a lasting mark on the entrepreneurial landscape!"

“Get ready to witness NL Startup Competition dominating the spotlight at Upstream Festival. This is the ultimate platform for promising startups to seize exposure and tap into an expansive network.”

"Embrace the challenge, unleash your creativity, and let innovation be your drive.
Looking forward to be inspired in this contest."

“Proud to be part of the first NL Startup Competition. Can’t wait to see all the ambitious ideas and founders. Supporting this competition not only fuels the growth of promising startups but also reinforces our dedication to keep developing this entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

“I'm energized by the prospect of startups tackling societal challenges through innovation. Events like the NL Startup Competition offer vital networking, customer acquisition, and funding opportunities to help startups succeed. Really looking forward to being part of this ecosystem.”

“I’m passionate about using technology to make the world a better place. I’m currently working on a project called Ease2pay, it is an intelligent activation and payment platform. With it, operators of charging stations, parkings, ports, markets, marinas and camper parks create self-service options for users.”

"I am convinced that we can avert the climate crisis, but then we will need creativity and new technologies. So much more is possible! NL Startup Competition is a great incentive for startups to continue their journey. They are the beginning of a bright future."

“In a world of ceaseless transformation, the next market disruptors lie within the brilliant minds of today's startups. The NL Startup Competition provides a platform for the best ideas to emerge and be recognized. They uncover innovative potential, guiding ideas from concept to implementation and influencing the future landscape.”

“It’s been an amazing ride so far. Being named one of the 16 finalists is already a huge honor, and we’re excited to bring our pitch to the finale stage.”

“The pitch training was a highlight, testing our blind spots and refining how we communicate our mission. It’s always refreshing to get new perspectives on a complex product.”

“The team behind the competition has been fantastic, always communicating clearly and keeping us on track with updates, reminders, and support.”

“It’s been energizing. You’re surrounded by mission-driven teams who want to build real change. For us, the competition brought visibility, momentum, and new conversations that might not have happened otherwise.”