Startup
Why Join This Microbiome Startup Competition?
You can win two awards with one application and double up your exposure and network.
Get Industry-Expert Feedback That Matters
Your pitch deck and product will be evaluated by top-tier industry professionals—VCs, corporate leaders, and scientists—who know what it takes to succeed in microbiome, biotics, and health innovation.
Validate Your Strategy with Real-World Insight
Gain clear, actionable feedback on your scientific, regulatory, and business models—helping you avoid costly missteps early on.
Get Visibility in the European Microbiome Ecosystem
Showcase your startup to a targeted audience of investors, corporates, accelerators, and media focused on health and microbiome innovation.
Win Prizes and Strategic Opportunities
Selected finalists may receive not only financial or in-kind awards, but also introductions to potential partners, pilot projects, or co-development opportunities.
Build Your Network with Key Decision Makers
Form valuable connections with experts, mentors, and peers who can help unlock regulatory pathways, product-market fit, or manufacturing scale-up.
Sharpen Your Pitch, Story and Strategy
Use this high-stakes environment to refine how you communicate your unique value proposition—crucial for follow-on funding or customer traction.
Accelerate Your Go-to-Market Readiness
Whether you’re pre-revenue or preparing for scale, the feedback and exposure gained here can compress your path to impact.
General Information
Q: What is the Microbiome Explorer Challenge (MEC)?
A: MEC is a startup competition focused on microbiome innovation across health, nutrition, diagnostics, and biotics. It connects early-stage startups with expert mentors, scientists and potential investors.
Q: Who can apply?
A: Any early-stage startup or academic team from Europe working on microbiome-related solutions (e.g., probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, synbiotics, diagnostics, therapeutic platforms, or omics-based tools).
Application & Selection
Q: How do I apply?
A: You can apply through the online form at (Apply link) starting 15 April 2026
Q: Is there an application fee?
A: No, participation is completely free of charge.
Q: What are the evaluation criteria?
A: Proposals will be judged based on:
- Regulatory and commercialisation path
- Scientific and technological innovation
- Market potential and scalability
- Business model clarity
- Team background
Q: Who are the judges?
A: Our jury consists of renowned scientists and business advisors from the microbiome field—many of whom are also involved in organizing the IPC Conference.
Awards & Benefits
Q: What can I win?
A:
- €25,000 in expert consultations (business + research)
- €5,000 cash price
- 1 free ticket to IPC, the world’s leading scientific conference in biotics for 5 finalists (www.probiotic-conference.net)
- Tailored feedback and validation support
Program & Timeline
Q: What is the timeline of the challenge?
A:
- Applications open: 15 April 2026
- Application deadline 27 May 2026
- Final pitch & awards: 22 – 24 June in Krakow at IPC2026
Q: Do I need to pitch live?
A: Yes, shortlisted teams in finals will be invited to present live. Detailed guidelines will be shared in advance.
Other
Q: Do I need a registered company to apply?
A: No, teams without a legal entity (e.g., research spin-outs) can apply, but you should demonstrate clear plans for commercialisation.
Q: Can I apply if I already raised funding?
A: Yes. The challenge is open to both pre-seed and seed-stage startups.
Q: What language should the application be in?
A: All applications and pitches must be in English.
Q: Will you sign NDAs?
A: No, but we respect confidentiality and only share your application with internal jury members. Avoid including unpublished IP-sensitive data.