Call For Applications: Microsoft Imagine Cup 2026 (Up to USD 100,000 in prizes for Student Innovators)

The Microsoft Imagine Cup 2026 is a worldwide student technology competition that invites young innovators to build solutions that address real-world challenges using Microsoft cloud and AI technologies. Whether you’re prototyping your first tech idea or scaling an early-stage startup, this competition gives you access to tools, mentorship, community, and global recognition.

What Imagine Cup Offers (Benefits)

💰 Prizes and Investment Readiness

• Up to USD 100,000 in prizes for top teams in the Scale track.
• Up to USD 50,000 in sponsorship and visibility for Launch-track teams.

🧠 Expert Mentorship & Global Visibility

Gain coaching from Microsoft experts and potential spotlight opportunities with industry leaders, which can accelerate your tech career.

🚀 Access to Tools & Cloud Credits

Teams unlock up to $5,000 in Azure credits to build, test, and refine their MVPs, plus access to GitHub and Replit tools.

🌍 Global Community & Networking

Interact with a global cohort of student founders, developers, and industry professionals — ideal for collaboration and future opportunities.

Who Can Apply (Eligibility)

To participate in Imagine Cup 2026:

• You must be a student aged 18 or older enrolled in a high school, college, or university.
• Form a team of up to four student members — all must meet eligibility.
• Your project should include at least two Microsoft AI services (e.g., Azure AI tools).
• Solutions should use Microsoft’s platforms — particularly cloud or AI components — and address a real-world problem with clear impact potential.

Microsoft may apply additional rules from the official competition documentation to all participants.

Competition Structure & Tracks

Imagine Cup 2026 includes two participation paths based on your project’s development stage:

Launch Path

Best for early-stage teams with prototypes or MVPs that haven’t yet secured significant external funding. This track helps refine ideas and move toward product-market fit.

Scale Path

Designed for student teams with existing users, some revenue, or initial traction. Those selected focus on scaling, refining models, and preparing for wider adoption.

Categories You Can Explore

Imagine Cup allows you to build solutions in familiar or custom categories such as:

• Cybersecurity
• Education technologies
• Healthcare and life sciences tools
• Climate and sustainability solutions
• Financial services innovation
  Beyond these, student teams can propose novel categories that align with Microsoft AI and cloud technologies.

Important Deadline & Timeline

📅 Application Deadline: January 9, 2026
This is the final date to submit your full entry, including MVP, pitch deck, and supporting materials.

Competition milestones, semifinals, regionals, and the World Championship rounds follow after submission closing, leading into 2026 judging and finals.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official Microsoft Imagine Cup website: https://imaginecup.microsoft.com
2. Register your team and create a profile.
3. Develop your tech project using Microsoft’s tools and services.
4. Prepare your pitch deck, demo video, and all submission materials.
5. Submit your entry through the Imagine Cup portal before the deadline.

Teams must follow all submission requirements outlined in the official rules.

Why This Opportunity Matters

• Build Real-World Tech: Use AI and cloud technology to address community, social, or industry challenges.
• Get Microsoft Support: Leverage global tech tools, mentorship, and a platform recognized by employers and investors.
• Accelerate Your Startup Journey: Winning or finalist teams often gain credibility and visibility that opens doors to funding and partnerships.
• Join a Global Tech Community: Connect with student innovators from around the world to share ideas and build networks.