Do you have an innovative start-up and want to pitch in front of a prestigious jury as well as a large audience? In that case, the ruhrSUMMIT Award 2025 is just right for you! Win not only up to €10,000 in prize money, but also visibility, new investors and valuable business contacts.

The ruhrSUMMIT is one of the leading start-up events in Germany. This is where founders, investors and companies meet to network, exchange ideas and promote start-ups with potential. Whether you are looking for funding, cooperation partners or mentoring - this is the perfect stage to take your start-up to the next level.

Take your chance and apply now until 04/13/2025!

1. 1st place: € 10,000 prize money
2. 2nd place:  € 2,500 prize money
3. 3rd place: Brand positioning workshop powered by SevenVentures

We would like to thank our long-standing, generous sponsor Aulinger Rechtsanwälte und Notare for providing the prize money.

• Start-up location: Worldwide
• Foundation not older than 5 years
• An innovative business model / digital component
• Growing sales 

• Buy a start-up ticket or a start-up booth for the ruhrSUMMIT
• Fill out the application form by 04/13/2025
• An expert jury will evaluate the pitch decks based on defined evaluation criteria.
• The best 8 teams will be invited to the final.
• The ruhrSUMMIT Award will take place on May 27, 2025, at the ruhrSUMMIT in the Jahrhunderthalle.
• The 8 finalists will pitch live on the Main Stage in front of a reknown jury (3 minutes pitch, 5 minutes Q&A).
• The winners will be chosen directly at ruhrSUMMIT.