Up to $250,000 Cash and $1 Million in Startup Credits – Microsoft Imagine Cup 2027

Microsoft has officially opened applications for the Imagine Cup 2027, a global startup competition offering $250,000 USD in cash and $1 million USD in startup credits to the overall winner.

The competition aims to support ambitious early-stage technology startups developing innovative software, AI-powered products and solutions to real-world business challenges.

Successful participants can gain access to funding prizes, Microsoft technology, expert mentorship, international exposure and opportunities to connect with potential investors and enterprise customers.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants must:

• Be aged 18 or over.

• Represent a legally registered startup founded on or after 2 November 2024.

• Be developing a software-based product or service with commercial potential.

• Not have raised Series C funding or later.

• Meet Microsoft's technology and Azure requirements.

• Be based in an eligible country, including the UK.

• Register a team of up to four eligible members.

Important: Imagine Cup 2027 is no longer exclusively for students. Eligible early-stage startups can apply, with a separate award available for student-led businesses.

What Funding and Support Is Available?

Imagine Cup World Champion

• $250,000 USD cash prize.

• $1 million USD in startup credits.

• Global recognition as the Imagine Cup Champion.

Second Place

• $50,000 USD cash prize.

• $350,000 USD in startup credits.

Third Place

• $25,000 USD cash prize.

• $350,000 USD in startup credits.

Top Student Startup

• $25,000 USD cash prize.

• $250,000 USD in startup credits.

Selected finalists may also benefit from Microsoft executive mentorship, promotional opportunities, technical support and connections across the global startup ecosystem.

What Types of Startups Are Eligible?

The competition welcomes innovative startups across seven technology and industry categories, including:

• Cybersecurity.

• Deep Tech and Physical AI.

• Developer Tools.

• Financial Services.

• Healthcare and Life Sciences.

• Retail.

• Other eligible enterprise technology solutions.

Applicants should demonstrate how their technology addresses a genuine customer problem, offers commercial potential and can grow into a sustainable business.

Key Dates

Applications Open: 2 November 2026

Application Deadline: 28 February 2027