Welcome
Welcome to the 2026 UAiTED Innovation Competition. This competition showcases high-potential startups incubated by UAiTED member institutions, while fostering cross-regional, multicultural, and interdisciplinary collaboration to accelerate global talent development and impact.
Eligibility
- Startup teams spun off from UAiTED Member Institutions or Specially Invited Institutions.
- Startup teams must be reviewed and nominated by UAiTED Member Institution or Specially Invited Institution . Direct applications from startup teams will NOT be accepted.
- Each team must include at least one currently enrolled full-time student or faculty member (no limit on team size). Faculty involvement may be either as a team member or through technology licensing/authorization.
- Participating teams must be Pre-A: seed funding completed, a launched product/service with initial PMF and early traction (e.g., active users, pilots, or initial revenue), and readiness to scale toward an A-round; cumulative fundraising of USD 300,000+ is preferred.
Theme
AI for Everyday Life – Innovative Solutions to Enhance Daily Living
Competition Timeline
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Jun 3
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Nomination opens
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Jul 1
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Nomination closes
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Jul 30
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Preliminary submission deadline
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Sep 4
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Announcement of finalists
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Oct 15
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Final pitch deck submission deadline
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Oct 20
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Grand Final (in-person, Taipei, Taiwan; details to be announced)
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Note: The organizer reserves the right to amend the timeline. Prior notice will be given.
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Awards
- Gold Prize: USD 15,000
- Silver Prize: USD 8,000
- Bronze Prize: USD 4,000
Judging Criteria
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Criteria
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Weight
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Problem Identification & Market Need
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15%
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Innovation & Market Differentiation
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15%
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Business Model & Sustainability
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25%
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Execution & Feasibility
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25%
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Pitch Clarity & Communication
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20%
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Full Details
For complete rules and submission requirements, please download the official Info Pack.
2026_UAiTED_Innovation Competition_Info Pack
