Microsoft 2027 AI and Technology Competition with Cash Prizes of Up to $250,000
Applicant criteria
- NationalityNo specific nationality required
- Age18 - 60
- GenderBoth
Opportunity criteria
- Opportunity FieldTechnology and Programming
- LocationRemotely
- Deadline2026-12-24
Opportunity description
Microsoft, through its Microsoft for Startups program, has announced that applications are now open for the Imagine Cup 2027, a global competition aimed at supporting innovative startups and technology-driven projects, helping them develop scalable products and expand into international markets.
The competition targets startups offering innovative software solutions to address challenges in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, financial technology (FinTech), healthcare, retail, and developer tools.
The 2027 edition introduces a significant expansion in eligibility requirements. The competition is no longer limited to university students but is now also open to eligible startup founders from various professional backgrounds, with a separate category dedicated to student-led projects.
The competition offers participants the opportunity to compete for a grand cash prize of $250,000, along with $1 million in technology credits to use Microsoft for Startups services.
Benefits
Grand Prize: $250,000 in cash, plus $1 million in technology credits from Microsoft for Startups.
Second Place: $50,000 in cash, plus $350,000 in technology credits.
Third Place: $25,000 in cash, plus $350,000 in technology credits.
Best Student Startup Award: $25,000 in cash, plus $250,000 in technology credits.
Access to technical and business mentorship from Microsoft experts.
Access to Microsoft Azure services, software development tools, and artificial intelligence technologies, subject to eligibility requirements.
Networking opportunities with investors, experts, and entrepreneurs from around the world.
Support for product development and improving market readiness.
Opportunities to present innovative projects to an international panel of judges.
The chance to qualify for the competition's Top 20 Startups list.
Promotion of outstanding projects through Microsoft's global platforms.
Opportunities to build professional and business partnerships that support startup growth and expansion.
Eligibility criteria
Participants must be at least 18 years old.
The startup must be legally registered.
The company must have been founded on or after November 2, 2024.
The startup must not have received Series C funding or any subsequent funding round.
The company must be developing a software product or service with commercial potential.
The project must clearly demonstrate the problem it addresses and identify its target audience.
The solution must utilize Microsoft and Azure technologies in accordance with the competition requirements.
The team must have a valid Azure subscription that can be linked to the project.
The official team must consist of no more than four members.
Applicants must not be previous winners of the Imagine Cup competition.
Each company may submit only one application under a single category.
Applicants must comply with all participation requirements and applicable legal and regulatory restrictions.
Ready to apply?
Microsoft 2027 AI and Technology Competition with Cash Prizes of Up to $250,000