About the opportunity
The Startup Pitch Session at the AI Horizon Conference 2026 offers innovative startups the chance to present their solutions before an international audience of industry leaders, investors, researchers, and policymakers. Hosted in Lisbon, Portugal, by the AI Ethics and Integrity International Association (AIEI), the pitch session is designed for founders developing ethically grounded and responsible AI products. Participating startups gain visibility, receive direct feedback, and build strategic partnerships across the global AI ecosystem.
Funding and benefits
- Opportunity to pitch directly to industry leaders, active investors, researchers, and policymakers
- Visibility and media exposure across conference channels and AI Ethics and Integrity International Association platforms
- Targeted networking opportunities with global AI organizations and professional members
Who can apply?
- Open to early-stage and growth-stage startups applying artificial intelligence in any industry
- Teams must have a working product, prototype, or well-defined concept
- Demonstrated innovative use of AI tackling real-world problems
- Strong potential for scalability and global impact
- Clear business model and viable growth strategy
Required documents
- Completed online application form
- Pitch deck upload in PDF or PPT format
- One-sentence startup description (maximum 30 words)
- Problem statement detailing the problem being solved (maximum 100 words)
- Solution overview explaining the product or service (maximum 150 words)
- Team summary covering founders and key roles (maximum 100 words)
- Optional links to social media profiles or press mentions
When to apply
- Application deadline: October 31, 2026
- Selection announcement: November 3, 2026
- Pitch session date: November 11, 2026
How to apply
- Navigate to the official startup pitch application form on the AI Horizon website
- Provide contact details, job title, company name, website, and headquarters location
- Enter startup details including stage, problem statement, solution overview, and founder team summary
- Upload your pitch deck in PDF or PPT format and provide any optional press or social links
- Accept the privacy notice and terms of use, then submit the application by October 31, 2026
Additional information
- The pitch session takes place in person during the AI Horizon Conference on November 11, 2026, in Lisbon, Portugal
- Only complete submissions received before the deadline will be evaluated for the pitch showcase
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Founders of early-stage or growth-stage AI startups with an existing prototype or live product who are preparing for investor outreach
- Teams focused on ethical, trustworthy, or high-impact AI applications seeking validation from leading ethics and policy experts
- Startups seeking European and international market exposure, cross-border partnerships, and strategic connections
What should you think carefully about?
- The event takes place in Lisbon on November 11, 2026, and the official call does not specify whether travel, lodging, or conference admission costs are funded for selected presenters
- The turnaround between the November 3 selection notice and the November 11 pitch session is only eight days, requiring swift travel arrangements if pitching in person
- Strict word counts on the application form require concise, clear messaging regarding your problem, solution, and business model
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This competition serves as an impactful springboard for startup teams looking to validate their business model, attract seed or growth capital, and gain public credibility. For founders prioritizing ethical AI development, presenting in front of AIEI's community of policymakers and researchers provides valuable positioning that regular commercial pitch competitions rarely offer.
Our take
Early-stage AI founders ready to pitch live to international investors and industry leaders should apply before October 31, 2026, provided they can accommodate travel to Lisbon on short notice if selected.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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