Startup Germany @ Web Summit Lisbon 2026

Call for Applications: Secure your spot at the Web Summit Lisbon 2026 as part of the Startup Germany delegation. 

 

The Web Summit (Lisbon, November 9–12, 2026) is one of the world’s leading technology conferences, bringing together startups, investors, corporates and innovation leaders from across the globe. It is characterized by its strong international reach, a high presence of investors and corporates, as well as structured matchmaking formats.

Relevance and Added Value

The Web Summit goes beyond purely investor-driven formats and brings together a broad and diverse innovation ecosystem. For startups, this creates valuable opportunities to:

  • connect with international investors and corporates
  • initiate pilot projects and strategic partnerships
  • validate their solutions in international markets
  • gain global visibility and media exposure

For Startup Germany, the event is a key platform to connect German startups with international stakeholders, support their global expansion and position Germany as a leading hub for innovation and investment.

Startup Germany Participation

Selected startups will join a curated Startup Germany delegation, the international startup brand of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE), and position themselves in a highly international and business-driven environment.

At the core of the German presence is the German Park, serving as a central hub for meetings, exchange and visibility. The Startup Germany Stage acts as a focal point within the German Park, hosting pitches, discussions and curated sessions throughout the event.

Program and Activities

The Startup Germany program combines visibility, content and targeted networking through:

  • a continuous stage program with keynotes, fireside chats and curated formats
  • corporate and partner formats, including pitch and collaboration opportunities
  • international collaboration formats with partner ecosystems
  • curated side events and matchmaking opportunities

These formats are designed to foster meaningful connections, highlight relevant technologies and strengthen the international visibility of the German startup ecosystem.

Selection Process Startups

Startups will be selected through an open application process. Please prepare a 5 slide deck covering following information and upload it (see link below):

  • Internationalization Interest & Readiness: Why do you want to participate and what are your goals?
  • Team: Who are you planning to send and what does their experience look like?
  • Value Proposition (USP)
  • Business Model (Unit Economics)
  • Traction (Customers, Partnerships)

Startups will be selected through an open application process. Selection will be based on criteria such as team strength, international readiness, scalability of the solution, and market traction.

Participation package (Startups) – 400 EUR

Selected startups will receive access to a subsidized participation package including:

  • Exhibition opportunity in the German Park (1 day)
  • 3 Web Summit tickets for the full duration of the event
  • Participation in the German-Brazilian Startup Night
  • Chance to pitch on the Startup Germany Stage
  • Access to curated networking formats (if you are eligible for the Web Summit Startup package)

(Final package details and pricing will be confirmed in the application process.)  

Why join Startup Germany @ Web Summit

By joining the delegation, startups benefit from:

  • Direct access to global investors and corporate partners
  • Opportunities for partnerships, pilots, and market validation
  • Enhanced international visibility
  • Positioning as part of the German innovation ecosystem
  • Integration into a curated, high-quality delegation environment

Applications are now open.

Participation Packages

  1. Startup Package - For exhibiting startups
    Join the Startup Germany delegation as a startup and receive further details: Startup Package

  2. Partner Package - For exhibiting partners
    Apply here as a partner and find more information on participation options: Partner Package 

  3. Ecosystem Package - For delegation participants without exhibition
    Register here to join the delegation and receive further information: Ecoystem Package

Application deadline: August 12th

For further information or questions, please contact Petra Fischer or Frederike Thöne.