What is the Lisbon Challenge?

Lisbon Challenge is an international startup acceleration program, inspired by MassChallenge, which will run its second edition over the course of 3 months in Lisbon from May 2nd until July 25th, 2014. 

The program will select 25 teams who will have access to more than 200 international mentors and investors to advance their projects and internationalize.

Lisbon Challenge is organized by Beta-i, a non-profit association based in Lisbon.

What is Beta-i?

Beta-i is a non-profit association, founded in 2010 and dedicated to innovating entrepreneurship in Portugal.

The primary mission of Beta-i is to help startups with global ambitions grow strong and increase their chances for success.

How is Lisbon Challenge different from other acceleration programs?

There are three key aspects that render the Lisbon Challenge different from other acceleration programs: 

No equity:
Lisbon Challenge does not take any equity from startups that participate in the program.

Multi-Location:
Trans-Atlantic program, with components in London, São Paulo, Lisbon and Boston. 

Multi-Sector:
For startups from all ICT sectors: Digital Media, Social Media, SaaS, Information Technology, Games, Electronics & Robotics, Big Data and Energy Management.

We're still accepting applications to Lisbon Challenge. Apply now.

Who can apply?

The acceleration program is specifically designed for startups in product, service or prototype phase wanting to internationalize.

Our target are technology-based startups: Social Media, SaaS, Information Technology, Games, Electronics & Robotics, Big Data, Energy Management and tourism. 

When is the application deadline?

Applications close on March 17th. You can still apply here

I only have an idea. Can I apply?

Lisbon Challenge is all about a solid team with the dream to create a successful product or service. So, if you have a team and you're still toying with an idea feel free to apply but if it is just you and an idea, this is not the program for you.

What are the selection criteria?

The criteria are as follows:

1. Team
2. Quality of the application (business summary and market potential)
3. Ambition and project scale-ability

We are looking for hard working, committed and collaborative people, characteristics that should be consistent throughout the application.

How many people do you accept per team?

The accelerator program will accept startups of any size, a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4 members can officially participate in Lisbon Challenge.

When do I know if my team got selected?

We are eager to have you in Lisbon, so as soon as we select the teams, we will let you know. Depending on your application date you might only be notified within 2 weeks of the program start date in Lisbon (May 2nd).

What information do I need to provide in the application form?

You will need to provide a company profile, a business summary, a short video presenting the opportunity and traction so far and a statement of your objectives for the Lisbon Challenge. The more information you provide about your startup, the better. 

Check out what is needed by starting your application.

What is the relationship between London, São Paulo and Boston?

The best of Lisbon Challenge will be selected to pitch their product, service or prototype at Investor Days in Lisbon, London, Boston and São Paulo.

Will equity be taken from startups?

No, we will not take any equity.

How much does it cost?

There are no costs associated with applying for the Lisbon Challenge. If you are accepted, there will be a commitment fee of 150€ per team, reimbursed on arrival to Lisbon.

Do I really need to be in Lisbon?

The program is based in Lisbon and requires the presence of at least two team members. We understand that you have to work on ongoing projects during your time here, so part of the day you will be able to dedicate to your own projects utilizing the office space we provide in Lisbon center.

Where will the Lisbon Challenge take place?

While in Lisbon, activities will take place at our offices in Central Station, Beta-i's space in Cais do Sodré, where a new entrepreneurial community is being born.

What is the official language of the Lisbon Challenge?

All activities will be conducted in English.

What will the participant startups receive?

Besides the mentoring, workshops and an exponential growth of your network, up to 10 startups will be selected by the Beta-i team to be invested and later incubated for 6 months. 

Plus, all participating teams in the Lisbon Challenge will get plenty of perks from our sponsors and partners.

Will you provide office space and Internet?

Yes, we will provide free office space and a gigabit internet link over wifi at our prime location in Central Station, in downtown Lisbon.

Will you cover accommodation, living and traveling expenses?

No. However, teams will have privileged access to low-cost living arrangements and discounted flights negotiated by Beta-i. A startups concierge will also be available to help you get started in Lisbon.

Can you obtain visas for international participants?

Yes. We offer help with visa procedures if needed.

Can I meet you and get to know Beta-i before applying?

Yes. Come by our offices if you can, or subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook to learn about upcoming events.