Are you an early-stage startup looking to take your idea global? The CEE Startup Voucher is back for its fifth edition, offering funding, expert feedback, and tailored support to help innovative businesses from Central and Eastern Europe grow beyond their borders. This annual competition connects promising founders across the region, building on shared geographical and cultural strengths to create opportunities for collaboration, investment, and expansion.
In just four years, the initiative has supported nearly 400 startups from over 23 countries, awarding more than €100,000 to top-performing teams. Whether you’re at the prototype stage or already have your first paying customers, the CEE Startup Voucher provides cash prizes, open innovation vouchers, and personalised support to help turn great ideas into scalable, globally competitive businesses.
Apply by 14 September 2025 for your chance to join the region’s next wave of success stories.
What’s in it for you?
Participating in the CEE Startup Voucher offers startups a range of benefits designed to fuel growth and success:
- €25,000 in prizes: A substantial financial boost that can help propel your business forward.
- Open Innovation Vouchers: More than €30,000 in partner prizes, from financial boosts to mentoring, consultations, and other activities designed to move your business forward.
- Pitch at the Finals in Žilina: The top 10 startups will pitch to an international audience of VC investors and industry experts.
- Expert feedback: Receive valuable insights from a network of seasoned professionals that will help you refine your business strategy.
- Cross-border collaboration: Connect with other innovative startups and companies, opening up exciting collaboration and partnership opportunities.
- Advanced labs and workspaces
Who is it for?
The CEE Startup Voucher is open to anyone with an innovative business idea, from the prototype stage to the first paying customer phase. Whether you’re in AI, fintech, mobility, sustainability, or any other emerging industry, this competition provides the tools and resources to help scale your venture.
How to apply?
• You can learn more about the competition on their website.
• Fill in your application here: CEE Startup Network Voucher 2025.
• Include an updated pitch deck.
• Shoot a short video.
Remember: 14 September is the last day applications will be open.
Timeline to keep in mind:
• 4 September 2025: Hybrid event about funding opportunities hosted in Ostrava.
• 14 September 2025: Application deadline.
• 6 October 2025: First-round results – top 20 startups announced.
• 15–16 October 2025: Semifinals – online.
• 11 November 2025: Finals in Žilina, Slovakia. The programme will be announced soon.
