Your idea. Your pitch. Your opportunity.
Do you have an idea for solving a technical, social, or environmental challenge—as a product or service? Then enter the SQuArE Startup Service idea competition and show us what your idea is all about.
For the first round, all you need is your smartphone and a short video.
Step 1: Submit an idea
Record a 2-3-minute video and present your idea:
- Who are you?
- What problem do you want to solve?
- What does your solution look like?
Upload your video to the Sciebo folder using the link in the registration form, and then submit the form.
The project team will select the eight most compelling ideas from all submissions.
Application and submission deadline: September 30, 2026
Step 2: Your Professional Pitch
The 8 selected ideas will be turned into a professional pitch video in collaboration with the Bibliothek⁺ video lab(Opens in a new tab) .
In the process, you’ll further develop your ability to clearly structure ideas, communicate them effectively, and inspire others to get excited about them.
In addition, you’ll create a high-quality video that you can use for projects, job applications, or future endeavors.
At the virtual closing event on November 10, 2026, the pitch videos will be presented to and evaluated by a panel of experts. Afterward, the participants will answer the jury’s questions about their ideas. The jury will determine the rankings.
Here’s what you can win
1st Place: 500 euros
2nd place: 300 euros
3rd Place: 100 euros
Road to 500
By October 1, 2026
Film a concept video and submit your application.
October 5, 2026
You’ll be notified if your idea is among the top 8.
October 12–16, 2026
Professional pitch video shoot with Bibliothek⁺ at SQuArE.
November 10, 2026 | 4:00–6:00 p.m. (Attendance required)
Digital closing event with a panel of experts and awards ceremony.