Ready to Pitch?

Apply in 5 minutes for the chance to win a $1,000,000 startup investment

Start your application today to compete for regional recognition, global exposure, and up to $1M in funding

From application to global finale

Submit a single application and select your primary region. From there, your startup will automatically be considered across the entire global program.

Eligibility

Who should apply

The Pitch is open to startups typically at pre-Seed, Seed and Series A stages that meet the following criteria:

Already have full-time founders
Based in any country in the world
From any industry
Have a registered legal entity
Building a product or service with scaling potential

Prizes

What you can win

Regional Winners: Each of the 100 regional champions receives $50,000 and advances to the Global Finale. Global Champions: 10 finalists compete for $1M each in SAFE funding. All winners gain exposure, media coverage, and access to Deel's global network of founders, investors, and partners.

Next Steps

What happens after you apply

Once you submit your application, it will be reviewed by our AI-powered selection system and a panel of expert judges. Top-scoring founders will be notified of their Golden Tier status and invited to compete in regional finals. All applicants will receive updates on their application status via email.

FAQs

Who can apply to The Pitch?

Any seed-stage startup with a minimum viable product (MVP) can apply. We’re looking for companies at the pre-seed or seed stage that have incorporated (we can help with that!) and are ready to scale.

How much does it cost to apply?

Absolutely nothing. The Pitch is completely free to enter. No application fees, no participation fees, no hidden costs. We believe the best ideas should compete on merit, not on who can afford to pay.

What happens if I make it to the Global Finale?

You’ll compete for up to $1M in investment and receive unprecedented global exposure. Finalists get access to Deel's network of investors, mentors, and industry leaders, plus extensive media coverage and the chance to present at our flagship event.

How long does the application take?

The application is designed to be fast and founder-friendly. Most applicants complete it in under 5 minutes. We ask for essential information about your startup, your product, and your traction—nothing excessive.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?

We evaluate based on product strength, market opportunity, team capability, traction metrics, and scalability potential. Both AI analysis and human expert review ensure fair, comprehensive assessment of every application.

When will I hear back about my application?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. If you advance to Golden Tier, you’ll be notified with next steps.

Is in-person attendance required for the regional finals and grand finale?

Yes. All stages of The Pitch require in-person participation.

Who will judge the regional finals and grand finale?

Judges will be announced closer to each event.

What is the structure of the investment?

All investments are made via a SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity). Funding will be issued within six months of the grand finale.

What do startups need to prepare?

Qualified startups must deliver a 2-minute live presentation with supporting slides.

Do presentations need to be in English?

Yes. All events are conducted in English, and presentations must be delivered in English regardless of location.

What do regional winners receive?

Regional winners receive:

$50,000 SAFE investment
Travel and accommodation for the grand finale
Additional partner and sponsor perks (to be announced)

What do grand finale winners receive?

Grand finale winners receive:

$1,000,000 SAFE investment
Networking and promotional opportunities
All regional-level prizes and benefits

Do grand finale winners receive both investments?

Yes. Grand finale winners receive both the $50,000 regional investment and the $1,000,000 grand prize.

Are travel and accommodation covered for regional finals?

No. Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation for regional events.

Are travel and accommodation covered for the grand finale?

Accommodation is covered for regional winners. Flights are not included.

When is the application deadline?

Applications close two weeks before each regional event. Regional dates:

Tel Aviv: March 23rd
Dubai: April 6th
Paris: April 13th
Berlin: April 20th
London: April 28th
Singapore: May 6th
New York: May 13th