Think your startup has what it takes?
Applications for the LEVEL UP Awards 2026 are officially open.
Every year, LEVEL UP puts the spotlight on the most promising tech startups and scale-ups in the Benelux. This is your opportunity to showcase your innovation, share your growth story and pitch your company in front of leading investors, entrepreneurs and innovation experts.
Three finalists will take the main stage at LEVEL UP 2026 on 28 September, where they will pitch live to our jury and audience. One startup will walk away with the LEVEL UP Award 2026.
Could that be you?
Apply now
Who can apply?
Your application will only be considered if your startup meets all four of the following criteria:
- Headquartered in the Netherlands, Belgium or Luxembourg
- Founded in 2020 or later
- In the startup or scale-up phase (not a corporate spin-off)
- Has an active product or service on the market
Why apply?
Last year’s winner, Salvia BioElectronics, saw firsthand what the award can mean:
This is fantastic, it makes me proud and it is an honor. An honor for me personally, but especially for our team. We are a growing company, expanding worldwide. This award greatly helps to put us on the map as a company. That's amazing. I especially want to thank all the patients from our clinical studies who had the courage to work with us. That takes a lot of guts.
Hubert Martens, CEO of Salvia BioElectronics
What does the jury assess?
Applications will be evaluated by an expert jury based on the following criteria:
- Innovation and technological depth
How innovative is your solution, and what makes your technology stand out? - Traction and growth
What progress have you made so far, and what evidence demonstrates market validation and growth? - Scalability and market potential
How large is the opportunity, and how well positioned is your business to scale? - Team strength and execution capability
Does your team have the expertise, vision and ability to deliver on its ambitions? - Societal impact and sustainability
How does your solution contribute to a better, more sustainable future? - Fit with LEVEL UP and stage presence
Can you inspire the audience with a compelling story and demonstrate why your startup deserves the LEVEL UP spotlight?
Ready to LEVEL UP?
The spotlight is waiting. Claim your place.
Apply before 1 September and show us why your startup should be on the LEVEL UP main stage.