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EA 2026 | Youth Startup Award - Application

As part of the Entrepreneurship Awards 2026, Unicorn Factory Lisboa, in partnership with NTT Data, is proud to present the 4th edition of the Youth Startup Award.

This award recognizes startups founded by young university students that stand out for their innovation and unique approach to solving a real market need.

📌 Who can apply?

• Startups that have significant operations in Portugal

• At least 50% of co-founders are current or recent university students (enrolled in the 2024/25 or 2025/26 academic years)

• All eligible co-founders are 30 years old or younger

• Provide an innovative, technology-driven solution with a scalable business model

• Demonstrate a strong team, clear implementation capacity, and growth potential

📌 Process & next steps

• Applications open until September 23, 2026 • All applications will be reviewed for eligibility against the criteria above • Pre-selected startups will be invited to a remote jury session • Finalists will present live at the Entrepreneurship Awards Ceremony in October 2026, where the winner will be announced

💡 The winning startup receives a €2,500 cash prize and visibility across Portugal's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

👉 Take the time to complete this form carefully - your responses will be used by the jury throughout the evaluation process.

About You

Name

Email

Phone Number

Date of Birth

Nationality

Do you currently attend university or have attended in the year 2024/2025 or 2025/2026 (bachelor's, master's or doctorate's)?

Yes

University

Do you have another founders in your team?

Yes