2025 Youth Start-Up Competition (YSC): Empowering Young Entrepreneurs to Shape the Future

The European Commission is proud to present the 2025 Youth Start-Up Competition (YSC), a flagship initiative within European SME Week. Building on the momentum of previous years, YSC 2025 aims to spotlight and support young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 25 who are developing bold, creative start-up ideas to help shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and competitive Europe.

With the SME Assembly 2025 taking place under the theme “Successful SMEs, Competitive Europe”, this year’s competition underscores the critical role young innovators play in driving progress, prosperity, and resilience in European entrepreneurship.

Submissions are now open and will be accepted until 20 September 2025.

What You Need to Know
 

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 18 to 25 years old
• Residency: Resident in any EU/associate countries to the SME pillar of the Single Market Programme

Submission Requirements

• Theme: Start-up ideas that promote innovation and reflect EU values.
• Format
  • Submit a short video (max. 3 minutes) which includes
    • An explanation of your start-up concept
    • Why it is relevant today
  • Provide a 3-page document that includes a short overview of your business model.
• Deadline: 20 September 2025

Selection Criteria

• Creativity: Is the idea new and inventive?
• Originality: Does it have the potential to capture attention and address real-world issues?
• Communication: Is the idea presented clearly and persuasively?
   

Why Participate?

A distinguished jury will evaluate all submissions and shortlist the top three finalists, who will be invited to present their ideas at the SME Assembly 2025, taking place in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 10–12 November 2025.

During a dedicated YSC session at the Assembly, the finalists will pitch their start-up concepts live to both the jury and the audience. A combination of jury and audience votes will determine the winner, announced live on stage.

What’s in it for you?

• Visibility among Europe’s top policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs
• A chance to network, learn, and collaborate
• Attend high-profile workshops, panels, and networking sessions
   

The winner receives an exclusive invitation to the European Innovation Council (EIC) Summit 2026.

The YSC is part of the European Commission’s ongoing efforts to promote enterprises and support entrepreneurship across Europe. We recognize the crucial role that young people play in shaping the future of the European Union, and we are committed to fostering entrepreneurship as a promising career path for the next generation.

Are you ready to transform your idea into reality? Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to showcase your innovation, connect with like-minded individuals and gain exposure for your start-up. Start preparing your video submission today and get ready to make your mark on the entrepreneurial world.

Apply now: Submit your entry today and be part of shaping a better future for Europe!