Sword Startup Challenge:
Serving Wealth Management
Application phase is closed
Applications for the Sword Startup Challenge are now closed. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest updates and to discover even more events.
About the Program
Our industry partner, Sword, is a global leader in IT services, specializing in the development, maintenance, and support of corporate IT systems. The expertise of Sword's skilled professionals ensures seamless support for innovation and scalability, enabling startups to achieve success in a highly competitive landscape. With its Swiss division driving innovation, Sword collaborates closely with startups to transform bold ideas into impactful technologies.
Win a Venture Clienting Opportunity
The finalists of the Sword Startup Challenge 2026 will benefit from exclusive technical and commercial guidance from Sword, helping them refine and position their solution. Finalists gain business case advice, pitch training, and an introduction to industry players. The winning startup receives a venture clienting opportunity with access to potential clients, partners, and Sword's global commercial network.
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Apply Now
Apply today and take your startup to the next level!
Eligibility Conditions
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Company registered in the Commercial Register for at least 1 year
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Cash flow visibility over the next 12 months
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With an IT solution that has been implemented at least once with a customer
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Your startup is active in, or its solution can be applied to, the wealth management sector
Jury criteria for the selection
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Technological innovation: Level of novelty, technological advancement, and uniqueness (USP) demonstrated by the start-up’s solution.
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Market impact: The solution’s potential to transform the sector or address a significant challenge.
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Team and leadership: The skills and experience of the founding team and management.
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User experience (UX) and accessibility: Ease of use of the solution, intuitiveness of the interface and accessibility for different types of users.
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Adaptability and agility: The ability to adapt to market developments, new technological trends and customer expectations.
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Contributing to sustainability and ethics: Responsible practices, ethical data management and a positive contribution to society.
Program Timeline
March 1, 2026:Application Deadline
April 15, 2026:
Announcement of the 5 Finalists
April 16, 2026 - May 27, 2026:
Business Case Preparation with Sword experts, and Pitch Training with Venturelab
May 12, 2026:
Venturelab Pitch Training (Online)
May 28, 2026:
Final Jury Pitch Day
From June 2026:
Venture Clienting Opportunity for the Winner
Only complete applications will be considered
Application phase is closed
Applications for the Sword Startup Challenge are now closed. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest updates and to discover even more events.