Entrepreneurship World Cup
Why Join the Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC)?
The Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) is one of the world’s largest and most diverse startup support programs. It welcomes entrepreneurs at all stages, from idea to growth. It offers more than just a pitch competition; it’s a global launchpad for mentorship, visibility, and market entry.
Launched by the Mohammed Bin Salman Foundation (Misk) in 2019, in partnership with the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), EWC offers a full-scale experience, culminating in the opportunity to compete for $1.5 million in prizes at the Global Finals during Biban Forum in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
What Set EWC Apart?
EWC is more than a pitch, it’s a full entrepreneurial experience:
• $1.5 million cash prizes with no contingency awarded to top startups across various tracks.
• Fully covered travel, visa, and accommodation expenses for the top 100 global finalists.
• Direct access to global investors and enablers across public and private sectors.
• Dedicated pitch opportunity at Biban Forum, the region’s largest entrepreneurship event.
• Fully-funded Soft-Landing Program for selected winners, enabling seamless entry into the Saudi market and providing direct connections to potential investors and business partners.
EWC’s Core Objectives
· Attract the World’s Most Innovative Startups
Focus on game-changers aligned with Saudi Arabia’s strategic sectors.
· Showcase Opportunities Within the Kingdom
Highlight untapped markets and high-growth sectors across Saudi Arabia.
· Drive Investment and Ecosystem Growth
Connect founders with local capital and foreign direct investment opportunities.
· Tackle Global Challenges with Bold Ideas
Empowering startups to innovate solutions that address real-world problems.
Impact at a Glance
· +20,000 entrepreneurs empowered
· +150 countries represented
· 100 global finalists selected annually
· +120 active investors engaged
· +7,500 hours of training delivered
· $1.5 million in total prize value
Who Should Apply?
Whether you’re validating your idea or scaling rapidly, EWC is for you.
· Idea Stage – Concept validation or pre-product
· Early Stage – MVP developed and showing early traction
· Growth Stage – Scalable business with existing revenue or funding
If you're innovating, you're ready.
What Can You Win?
Early Stage – Global Finals
· Champion: $250,000
· 2nd Place: $200,000
· 3rd Place: $150,000
· 4th Place: $100,000
· 5th Place: $50,000
Growth Stage – Global Finals
· Champion: $175,000
· 2nd Place: $100,000
Idea Stage – Global Finals
· Champion: $50,000
· 2nd Place: $25,000
New in 2025: SpaceTech Sector Prizes
New in EWC 2025: A spotlight on space-enabled innovation. Four $100,000 cash prizes will be awarded to startups using satellite and space tech to solve global challenges.
· SpaceTech for Mining
Smarter resource mapping, sustainability, and safety using EO, PNT, and AI.
· SpaceTech for Smart Construction & Infrastructure
Satellite-powered insights for monitoring structures, planning, and real estate.
· SpaceTech for Crowd Management in Mass Gatherings
Optimize safety and movement at large events like Hajj and Umrah.
· SpaceTech for Public Safety
Leverage satellites for disaster response, border control, and emergency communications.
Are you building in SpaceTech? This is your global stage.
Your EWC Journey
1. Global Registration opens to startups in all sectors and stages.
2. Initial Judging and Shortlisting of the Top 250 startups who will join a virtual bootcamp.
3. Second Judging Round to select the Top 100 startups.
4. Global Finals at Biban 25, featuring live pitches, judging, networking, and award ceremonies.
5. Post-Competition Soft-Landing Program, supporting selected startups in expanding into Saudi Arabia.
Ready to Compete?
This isn’t just a pitch, it’s your chance to launch, grow, and lead globally.
