Building a startup that uses artificial intelligence to solve real problems? The AI Ethics and Integrity International Association (AIEI) is inviting AI startups to pitch at its Startup Pitch Session 2026, held during the AI Horizon Conference in Lisbon, Portugal, on 11 November 2026. Selected founders will present to investors, industry leaders, researchers and policymakers. Applications close on 31 October 2026.
Event at a Glance
- Organiser: AI Ethics and Integrity International Association (AIEI), a non-profit based in Switzerland and Portugal
- Event: Startup Pitch Session at the AI Horizon Conference 2026
- Date: 11 November 2026
- Location: Lisbon, Portugal (in person)
- Open to: Early-stage and growth-stage AI startups from any industry
- Selection results: 3 November 2026
- Deadline: 31 October 2026
Benefits
- Pitch to decision-makers: Present your startup to investors, industry leaders, researchers and policymakers in one room.
- Visibility: Get featured in the conference media and AIEI’s communication channels.
- Networking: Meet AI companies, experts and potential partners from across Europe and beyond.
- Feedback: Get reactions from experienced people in the AI field that can sharpen your product and fundraising story.
Note: The official call does not mention cash prizes, investment commitments or travel support. Treat this as a visibility and networking opportunity, and plan your own travel to Lisbon.
Eligibility
You can apply if your startup:
- Is at the early stage (idea, pre-seed or seed) or growth stage
- Uses artificial intelligence in any sector, such as health, finance, agriculture, education, climate or logistics
- Has a working product, a prototype or a well-defined concept
- Can send a team member to pitch in person in Lisbon on 11 November 2026
Selection Criteria
Applications are judged on:
- Innovation: How creatively your startup uses AI to tackle a real-world problem
- Scalability and impact: Your potential to grow and make a difference globally
- Business model: A clear plan for how you make money and grow
What You Need to Submit
- Your name, job title and contact email
- Startup name, website and headquarters (city and country)
- A one-sentence description of your startup (up to 30 words)
- Your stage (idea/pre-seed, seed or growth)
- A problem statement (up to 100 words)
- A solution overview (up to 150 words)
- A team summary (up to 100 words)
- A pitch deck (PDF or PPT)
- Optional: social media links or press coverage
Only complete applications will be reviewed.
Tips for a Winning Application
- Nail the one-liner. Your 30-word description is the first thing reviewers read. Say clearly who you help, what problem you solve and how AI makes it possible.
- Show responsible AI. The organiser focuses on AI ethics and integrity, so briefly explain how your product handles data privacy, bias or transparency.
- Use real numbers. Users, pilots, revenue or partnerships make your traction believable.
- Keep the deck tight. Ten to twelve slides covering problem, solution, market, business model, traction, team and your ask is usually enough.
- Sort out travel early. If you need a Schengen visa for Portugal, start the process right away, because appointments can take weeks.
How to Apply
- Prepare your short answers and your pitch deck.
- Fill in the online application form on the AIEI website and upload your deck.
- Submit before 31 October 2026.
- Selected startups will be told on 3 November 2026.
Apply for the AIEI Startup Pitch Session 2026
