21 - 27 September 2026, Roma
22–23 September 2026
Zest HUB · Via Marsala 29H · Rome
Future Hub Origin
Pitch your startup in Rome. To Europe.
Selected startups from across Europe take the stage during Rome Future Week, one of Italy's leading innovation events. Not just a pitch — a room full of investors, corporates, mentors and ecosystem players, and the connections that come with it.
WHY TAKE PART
A stage inside a citywide innovation platform.
For one week, Rome Future Week turns the city into a meeting point for companies, institutions, universities, founders and creators. The Pitch Session gives promising startups a place in that ecosystem.
Present live in Rome
Pitch your project to a qualified jury and audience in a central, highly visible venue at Roma Termini.
Meet the room
Investors, corporates, mentors and ecosystem representatives from Italy and across Europe, in one place.
Compete for the title
The winner is named Best European Startup in Rome | RFW 2026and receives a services package worth up to €10,000.
THE AWARD
One winner. Real support to keep building.
The prize is awarded entirely in services — chosen to help the winning startup grow and find its place. Final composition and partners are announced before the final round.
Best European Startup
in Rome | RFW 2026
WHO CAN APPLY
Open to all sectors. Built for momentum.
The call is open to startups and scaleups based or operating in a European country. Applications are welcome from every sector.
PREFERRED PROFILE
Early growth & growth stage
Strongest fit for teams with traction to show:
- Advanced product or service
- Validated MVP, or solution already tested in the market
- International growth potential and scalability
- Economic, social, cultural or environmental impact
ALSO WELCOME
Earlier-stage startups
Not automatically excluded. To stand out, show:
- A solid, well-defined project
- A credible team
- A clear development roadmap
- Real technological innovation
WHAT SELECTED STARTUPS GET
More than a slot on the agenda.
A place in the official programme
Selected startups join the official programme of the Future Hub Origin during Rome Future Week 2026.
The live pitch
Present your project to a qualified jury and audience in the heart of Rome.
Networking inside the programme
Access to the connections, conversations and people that make the week worth the trip.
Visibility & storytelling
Potential coverage in Rome Future Week communication, editorial and storytelling activities.
TIMELINE
From open call to the stage.
25 May 2026
Call opens
Applications open across Europe.
31 July 2026
Application deadline
Last day to submit your project and materials.
by 26 August 2026
Selection & notification
Review concludes and selected startups are notified.
22–23 Sep 2026
Pitch session & award ceremony
Two days in Rome at Zest, Stazione Termini. In-person attendance on both days is required.
HOW TO APPLY
Three things, one form.
Complete the official application form with the information about your company, project, team and development stage.
01.
Tell us who you are
Startup details, country of origin, sector, development stage and team composition.
02.
Show the project
Project description, target market, innovation highlights, plus any traction, clients, partnerships, investments or results so far.
03.
Add your pitch deck
Upload your pitch deck or presentation materials and your motivation for taking part.
SELECTION PROCESS
Judged on merit, by people who know the ecosystem
A jury of organiser representatives, ecosystem experts, investors, partners, mentors and representatives of incubators, accelerators, companies and institutions reviews every application. There may be an initial document screening, followed by a deeper evaluation that can include online interviews. The jury’s decision is final and binding.
EUROPEAN REPRESENTATION
Up to two startups per country
The aim is a broad, qualified picture of the European startup ecosystem. The organiser may select up to two startups per country — or one, or none — depending on the quality of applications and fit with the programme. Geography is a balancing factor; selection stays based on merit and overall fit.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Good to know before you apply.
Language
The pitch session is preferably held in English, unless otherwise indicated.
In person
Selected startups attend in Rome on 22 and 23 September. Both days are required.
Travel & Stay
Not covered by the organiser. Preferential hotel rates may be arranged, subject to availability — not a guaranteed right.
Cost
Applying and taking part is free of charge.
Meals
May be provided on the pitch days, with details communicated to selected startups.
Acceptance
Taking part implies full acceptance of the official rules and regulations.
Quick answers
Is the application free?
Yes. Applying to the European Startup Pitch Session is free of charge.
Who can apply?
Startups and scaleups based or operating in a European country, across all sectors.
Can early-stage startups apply?
Yes. Earlier-stage startups aren’t excluded, but preference goes to teams in early growth or growth stage, with an advanced product, validated MVP or a solution already tested in the market.
How many startups are selected?
Up to two per country. The final number depends on the quality of applications and the overall structure of the programme.
Are travel and accommodation covered?
No. Selected startups cover their own travel and stay. Preferential hotel rates may be offered, subject to availability.
Will meals be provided?
Meals may be provided on the pitch days. Details are shared with selected startups.
What does the winner receive?
The title of Best European Startup in Rome | Rome Future Week 2026 and a services package worth up to €10,000.
Is the prize awarded in cash?
No. It’s awarded only in services and can’t be converted into cash.
What language is the pitch in?
Preferably English, unless the organiser indicates otherwise.
When are selected startups notified?
by August 26, 2026
Where does it take place?
At Zest, Stazione Termini, Rome, during Rome Future Week 2026.