Deep-tech startups across the world are being offered a fresh route into Asia’s innovation market as SLINGSHOT 2026 returns with more than S$2.2 million in grant prizes and a chance to pitch before global investors in Singapore.
- Deep-tech startups across the world are being offered a fresh route into Asia’s innovation market as SLINGSHOT 2026 returns with...
- Now in its 10th edition, the competition has grown into one of Asia’s most recognised startup platforms, drawing thousands of...
- The competition is organised by Agorize and supports startups seeking international partnerships, funding opportunities and market expansion.
- Organisers say the programme offers founders more than just prize funding.
Keep reading for the full breakdown on AI startups — everything you need to know is covered below.
Now in its 10th edition, the competition has grown into one of Asia’s most recognised startup platforms, drawing thousands of founders working in artificial intelligence, health technology, sustainability, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing. Organisers say this year’s edition aims to strengthen Singapore’s position as a launchpad for emerging technology ventures.
Global Competition Returns
SLINGSHOT 2026 is inviting startups from every region to apply before the 30 June deadline. The programme is open to ventures operating in sectors including clean energy, healthcare, ICT, logistics, manufacturing, financial services and water solutions.
The competition is organised by Agorize and supports startups seeking international partnerships, funding opportunities and market expansion. Applications are being accepted through the official portal.
Last year’s edition attracted more than 6,800 startups from over 150 countries. The top 60 finalists pitched live during the annual Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology, also known as SWITCH, one of Asia’s largest technology gatherings.
Focus on Deep Tech Innovation
This year’s challenge will spotlight startups working in five major domains. These include Advanced Computing and Intelligence, Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Systems, Digital Technologies and Security, Environment and Sustainability, and Health and Biomedical Innovation.
Organisers say the programme offers founders more than just prize funding. Participating startups will also join networking sessions, curated visits and meetings with investors, corporates and ecosystem leaders in Singapore.
The competition will shortlist leading ventures into the Top 50 Global Startups cohort. Finalists will have the opportunity to pitch live at the SLINGSHOT 2026 Finals before international judges and venture capital firms.
Singapore has increasingly positioned itself as a centre for deep technology growth, attracting startups seeking access to Asian markets, research infrastructure and international investors. SLINGSHOT has become one of the country’s flagship innovation initiatives over the past decade.
Opportunity for African and Global Startups
Applications are open to startups from Africa, Europe, the Americas, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as founders from smaller island regions and emerging innovation hubs.
Industry observers say African startups may find strong opportunities in this year’s sustainability, digital security, and health technology tracks, particularly as investors continue to look for scalable solutions that address energy access, healthcare delivery, and industrial efficiency.
Beyond the competition, finalists will connect with corporate partners and technology leaders looking for new solutions for commercial deployment.
Interested startups can submit applications through the official application page before 30 June 2026. Further enquiries can be directed to the organisers via alexander.young@agorize.com.