the foire du valais pitch contest returns in 2026. organized by the ark incubator, it offers young valais-based startups an opportunity to present their projects to a large audience, gain visibility, and win over a jury of experts. ten startups will be selected to take the stage, and two of them will win a prize of chf 2,000. applications are now open.
on friday, october 2, 2026, between 3:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., the ark will host a major startup pitch event in the heart of the espace innothèque. this event, open to the public, aims to highlight the dynamism of the regional entrepreneurial scene while providing tangible visibility to the young companies shaping the valais of tomorrow.
for this edition, ten start-ups will be selected to present their projects live in front of a diverse audience composed of visitors, economic players, and a panel of professional judges.
360° visibility and prizes up for grabs
taking part in this pitch event means much more than a simple presentation. each selected start-up will benefit from:
- a 4-minute slot to convince the audience;
- five entrance tickets to the Foire du Valais to invite partners, prospects, or supporters;
- increased visibility through media and digital coverage provided by the ark before, during, and after the event;
- the opportunity to win one of the two cash prizes of CHF 2,000.– (jury prize and audience vote).
how to participate?
The call for applications is now open. to apply, your company must meet the following criteria:
- have been founded after January 2021;
- be based in Valais;
- have strong pitching skills, demonstrated through a video or references to past presentations.
The application deadline is September 7, 2026.
The application form is available here.
Fondation the Ark | Rue de l’Industrie 23 – 1950 Sion