On March 11 and 12, 2026, Zagreb will once again become the center of European fintech and artificial intelligence innovation. The renowned startup competition enters its fourth edition and promises participants from across Central and Eastern Europe a unique platform for networking and business development.
Opportunities for Startups: Over €60,000 in prize money awaits
Founders and startup teams can compete for significant prize money totaling over €60,000. The awards include not only cash prizes but also high-quality service credits that give winners direct access to valuable resources and networks. These generous prizes make the competition one of the most attractive opportunities for innovative startups in the region.
Application Deadline: End of January – Time is running out
According to NS3.AI, applications are already open until the end of January 2026. Notably: The organizers are already reporting a record number of registrations, highlighting the growing appeal of the competition. Startups wishing to participate in this prestigious event should hurry – the deadline is approaching.
Strict Selection Criteria: International expert jury decides
A high-caliber panel of six international experts from the fields of fintech and venture capital will evaluate the submitted applications. The jury focuses on a core criterion: identifying startups with proven scalability and realistic growth prospects in the global market. This rigorous evaluation ensures that only the most innovative and promising projects will take the stage in Zagreb.
Why Zagreb? A growing startup ecosystem
Zagreb is increasingly developing into a significant hub for technological innovation in Central Europe. The choice of the city for the fourth edition underscores the rising importance of the fintech and AI sectors in the region. For participants, the competition in Zagreb offers not only the chance for prize money but also valuable contacts with investors and industry experts on an international level.
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Large Fintech and AI Startup Competition in Zagreb 2026
On March 11 and 12, 2026, Zagreb will once again become the center of European fintech and artificial intelligence innovation. The renowned startup competition enters its fourth edition and promises participants from across Central and Eastern Europe a unique platform for networking and business development.
Opportunities for Startups: Over €60,000 in prize money awaits
Founders and startup teams can compete for significant prize money totaling over €60,000. The awards include not only cash prizes but also high-quality service credits that give winners direct access to valuable resources and networks. These generous prizes make the competition one of the most attractive opportunities for innovative startups in the region.
Application Deadline: End of January – Time is running out
According to NS3.AI, applications are already open until the end of January 2026. Notably: The organizers are already reporting a record number of registrations, highlighting the growing appeal of the competition. Startups wishing to participate in this prestigious event should hurry – the deadline is approaching.
Strict Selection Criteria: International expert jury decides
A high-caliber panel of six international experts from the fields of fintech and venture capital will evaluate the submitted applications. The jury focuses on a core criterion: identifying startups with proven scalability and realistic growth prospects in the global market. This rigorous evaluation ensures that only the most innovative and promising projects will take the stage in Zagreb.
Why Zagreb? A growing startup ecosystem
Zagreb is increasingly developing into a significant hub for technological innovation in Central Europe. The choice of the city for the fourth edition underscores the rising importance of the fintech and AI sectors in the region. For participants, the competition in Zagreb offers not only the chance for prize money but also valuable contacts with investors and industry experts on an international level.