Application Deadline: January 9, 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026 Microsoft Imagine Cup Student Startup Competition. Imagine Cup is where student founders turn bold ideas into solutions trusted by organizations worldwide. At every step, you’ll have access to Microsoft’s AI technologies, tailored guidance, and connections that help you refine your product and grow as a founder. Focus on a challenge aligned with one of the five Imagine Cup categories or tackle a different one altogether.
Program Details
- Unlock up to $5,000 USD in Azure credits to experiment, test, and refine your Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
- Build your team. Up to four (4) students are allowed per team, and everyone must register on the Imagine Cup website.
- Join the Sprint to Imagine Cup, a learning experience designed to explore what’s possible with Microsoft’s platforms and help you prepare a strong submission.
Two Paths. One Goal: Build What Matters.
Imagine Cup offers two tailored paths, Scale and Launch, to meet student founders where they are. Whether you’re gaining traction or just starting to grow, you’ll build with Microsoft AI technologies and advance with expert mentorship, resources, and global community.
Scale
For student-led startups with traction.
If you’ve already secured users, revenue, or capital— whether through any amount of dilutive funding or no more than $5,000,000 USD in combined dilutive or external, non-dilutive funding—the Scale track is for you. You’ll focus on refining product-market fit and preparing to scale your solution into leading organizations. Top 3 Scale teams will secure their spot at the World Championship.
Prizing:
- Opportunities for deeper partnership with Microsoft for Startups.
- $100,000 USD*
- Private mentorship session with Microsoft Chairman and CEO, Satya Nadella
Launch
For early-stage student teams building with potential.
If you’re developing an AI-powered solution but not yet ready for Scale, the Launch track helps you take the next step. Whether you’ve built a prototype, tested an MVP, or are validating your market fit, this track gives you the support to grow with clarity and confidence. Eligible teams have not received any amount of dilutive funding, or have secured no more than $100,000 USD in external, non-dilutive funding. Winner announced after Semifinals.
Prizing:
- $50,000 USD*
- Continued visibility and support from Microsoft
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Microsoft Imagine Cup Student Startup Competition
