Young entrepreneurs and problem solvers from around the world now have the chance to compete in one of Europe’s most intense innovation contests as applications open for the 2026 InCube Challenge in Switzerland.
- Young entrepreneurs and problem solvers from around the world now have the chance to compete in one of Europe’s most...
- Organised by the ETH Entrepreneur Club, the competition brings together ambitious students, researchers, startup founders, engineers and creatives to tackle...
- Organisers say the experience goes beyond a traditional hackathon by combining entrepreneurship, mentorship and rapid problem-solving in a public setting.
- According to the organisers, all major costs for selected participants will be covered, including international travel to Switzerland, accommodation, food...
Keep reading for the full breakdown on AI Innovation — everything you need to know is covered below.
Organised by the ETH Entrepreneur Club, the competition brings together ambitious students, researchers, startup founders, engineers and creatives to tackle real industry problems while living inside transparent glass cubes for five days. The 2026 edition will run from 26 to 30 October at ETH Zurich.
The challenge has gained attention for its unusual format, which places teams under pressure to collaborate, quickly prototype ideas, and pitch solutions to business leaders and innovation experts. Organisers say the experience goes beyond a traditional hackathon by combining entrepreneurship, mentorship and rapid problem-solving in a public setting.
Five Days Inside a Glass Cube
Participants selected for the programme will work in teams of five on real-world business and societal challenges provided by partner companies. During the competition, teams will brainstorm, test concepts and develop presentations while living and working together inside specially built cubes.
Before entering the cubes, successful applicants will attend “OutCube”, a preparatory retreat in the Swiss Alps scheduled for 20 to 24 October. The retreat will focus on team building, workshops, networking and entrepreneurial training ahead of the main event.
According to the organisers, all major costs for selected participants will be covered, including international travel to Switzerland, accommodation, food and transport within the country.
Global Competition Draws Hundreds of Applicants
The competition continues to attract growing international interest. Posts shared by the InCube Challenge team revealed that more than 700 students from over 300 universities applied for the previous edition, with only a small number eventually selected.
Past participants have also gone on to launch startups after the challenge. Organisers highlighted examples of former teams transforming competition projects into new ventures after presenting their ideas at the final showcase event hosted at ETH Zurich’s Audi Max auditorium.
The programme is open to applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, including technology, science, business, sustainability, engineering and design. Organisers say they are looking for individuals who can demonstrate creativity, teamwork, leadership potential and a strong interest in solving practical problems.
Applications Close on 31 May
Applications for the 2026 edition opened on 1 May and will close on 31 May 2026. Shortlisted candidates will proceed through group and individual interview stages before final selections are announced in August.
Founded as a student-run non-profit organisation, the ETH Entrepreneur Club has become one of Europe’s most active entrepreneurship communities, hosting startup competitions, networking events, and innovation programmes to support young founders.