From the first application to the lights going up at Le Carrousel du Louvre, every key step on the road to RAISE 2026 is mapped out below.
Jan 8th
Applications open
June 1st
Applications close
June 10th
Top 100
June 24th
10 Finalist selection
July 8th
10 Finalist pitch
July 9th
Top 3 Pitch on main stage
2025 success story
Our 2025 winners
With an acceptance rate of less than 0.2%, our 2025 cohort represents the top tier of innovation. Out of 1,500+ applicants, these 3 startups earned their place on the main stage.
We believe that to build the best, you must be judged by the best. Our jury is composed of global industry leaders and high-caliber founders from the most successful tech cohorts in history.
This is a rare opportunity to showcase your innovation to a panel of top-tier decision-makers who have navigated the journey from foundational infrastructure to global scale, providing an unparalleled trajectory for our finalists.
Why just watch from the sidelines when you can SPONSOR the action?As a sponsor, you’ll position your brand at the intersection of innovation and opportunity, creating lasting connections with AI’s boldest founders.
Be a jury member
Join our jury to engage with cutting-edge startups, share your expertise, and position your brand as a thought leader while building strong connections with founders and investors.
Offer a prize
Amplify your brand by offering bespoke prizes that engage top startups, expand your reach, and spark valuable collaborations.
Gain deal-flow access
Unlock exclusive access to detailed insights on participating startups and talents, ideal for strategic partnerships and collaborations in the AI ecosystem
The competition focuses on early-stage AI companies with a live product or strong MVP, early traction and a clear path to market. Both infrastructure and applied AI startups are welcome.
Is there a fee to apply?
Application details, including any administrative fees, are specified in the application form. The intent is to keep the process accessible and focused on value for founders.
What happens after the summit?
Engagement continues beyond the event through follow-up introductions, visibility for alumni and opportunities to reconnect with the RAISE community at future editions.
Do we need to be based in Europe?
No. Startups from any region can apply, as long as at least one founder can attend the finals at RAISE Summit in Paris.
What evaluation criteria does the jury use?
The jury looks at the strength of the team, the distinctiveness of the product, evidence of traction or strong validation, and the scale of the opportunity the startup is addressing.
Application closes 1st of July
Bring your startup to the RAISE stage in Paris
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with clear communication at each step of the process.