You need to go through 3 steps:
1. Application form
2. Video: create a short video (up to 2 minutes maximum) introducing the core team/founder(s), their motivation and vision for the company. This is not a product video, but rather an introduction of founders to the evaluators. It does not need to be a fancy or technically sophisticated. The video must be uploaded in AVI of MP4 format, i. e. Name_of_the_startup_project.AVI/MP4 (max. 300 MB) as part of the application form. See an example below.
3. Pitch-deck: this is your opportunity to present your startup, product, market and development plans verbally and graphically. The pitch deck must be uploaded in PDF format, i. e. Name_of_the_startup_project.PDF as part of the application form. Pitch deck is executive summary that provides an overview of your startup, including its mission, value proposition, target market, competitive advantage, and revenue model. This will help you assess the viability and potential of the business. Try to be concise, not more than 10-15 slides.
More tips video and pitch-deck can be found HERE.
TIMELINE & IMPORTANT INFO
26.6.2025
Open call starts
Fill in the registration form
Familiarize yourself with the conditions
Create the team video
Improve your pitch-deck
20.9.2025
Application Submission deadline
Funding Horizons Ostrava
5.9.2025
Evaluation starts
See your judges (TBA)
6.10.2025
First Round results
TOP 20 startups
Confirm Finals attendance
Submit all required attachements
(cap table, confirmations regarding liquidation and economic or property offense)
You will get more detailed feedback by November 2025
15.-16.10.2025
Semifinals
30-minute project presentation - online
- 3 min pitching
- 20 min discussion, Q&A
- 7 min time reserve, feedback
20.10.2025
Learn about funding opportunities
for startups!
Semifinals results
TOP 8-10 STARTUPS
Žilina (SK) travel coordination assistance
will be provided
11.11.2025
Finals - Žilina (SK)
Arrive 1 day before for rehersal
Find out more about the event (TBA)
DECEMBER ONWARDS
Aftercare startup assistance services begin
Even if you didn't get to the finals,
we will support your vision!
