The World Economic Forum invites applications for its Technology Pioneers 2027 community, which recognises innovative early-stage startups developing technologies and business models with the potential to create a significant, long-term positive impact on society and the planet.
Each year, the Forum selects 100 companies from around the world to join a two-year community and engage with influential political, business, and cultural leaders. The initiative provides a platform for innovative companies to contribute to discussions on global challenges and technological progress.
For startups seeking international recognition and opportunities to connect with global decision-makers, the Technology Pioneers programme offers a chance to become part of a recognised global innovation community.
At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Technology Pioneers 2027 |
| Organiser | World Economic Forum |
| Opportunity Type | Startup Recognition and Global Engagement |
| Eligible Region | Global |
| Number of Selected Companies | 100 |
| Programme Duration | 2 years |
| Funding Requirement | Minimum US$10 million in Series A funding |
| Company Age | Less than 10 years old |
| Company Status | Independent and privately held |
| Eligible Applicants | Qualifying innovative startups |
| Application Deadline | 31 January 2027, midnight Pacific Time |
| Direct Financial Award | Not specified |
About the Technology Pioneers Programme
The World Economic Forum's Technology Pioneers community brings together early-stage startups that are developing and deploying new technologies and innovations.
The programme aims to connect these companies with influential leaders and provide opportunities to contribute to discussions addressing challenges affecting people and the planet.
Selected companies participate in the community for two years, during which they can engage with the Forum through global meetings, workshops, events, and activities organised for members of the Innovator Community.
What Does the Opportunity Offer?
Global recognition: Selected startups join the World Economic Forum's Technology Pioneers community, gaining recognition as innovative companies with the potential to make a meaningful impact.
Engagement with global leaders: Companies have opportunities to interact with prominent political, business, and cultural leaders.
Participation in international events: Technology Pioneers are invited to attend global meetings, workshops, and events hosted by the Forum.
Networking opportunities: Selected companies can connect with other innovators through tailored gatherings and activities for the Innovator Community.
Two-year community participation: Successful applicants join a community that provides opportunities for continued engagement with the World Economic Forum.
Please note that the information provided describes recognition, networking, and participation opportunities. It does not specify a cash grant or direct financial award.
Selection Criteria
To qualify for consideration, a startup must meet the following criteria.
1. Innovation
The company must be bringing a genuinely innovative technology or business model to market. Its innovation should have the potential to create a substantial and lasting positive impact on society or the planet.
2. Funding
The startup must have received Series A funding of at least US$10 million.
3. Company Age
The company must be less than 10 years old.
4. Ownership and Independence
The startup must be independent and privately held.
Companies should review these criteria carefully before applying to ensure that they meet the programme's stated requirements.
Who Should Apply?
The opportunity is intended for founders and CEOs of innovative startups that meet the World Economic Forum's selection criteria.
Potential applicants include:
- Technology startups developing innovative products, services, or business models.
- Companies addressing social, economic, environmental, or technological challenges.
- Startups that have secured at least US$10 million in Series A funding.
- Independent, privately held companies established less than 10 years ago.
- Businesses seeking international recognition and engagement with global leaders.
The Forum strongly encourages CEOs to complete the application themselves because their motivations and perspectives are important to the application process.
Expectations for Selected Companies
Selected Technology Pioneers are expected to participate actively in the community throughout their two-year tenure.
The CEO should expect to:
- Dedicate at least five hours per quarter to engagement with the World Economic Forum.
- Attend at least one global event each year during the programme.
- Participate in relevant meetings, workshops, events, and Innovator Community gatherings.
Companies should consider these commitments before submitting an application.
How to Apply
Interested startups should follow these steps:
- Visit the official World Economic Forum Technology Pioneers website.
- Review the selection criteria and confirm that the company meets the funding, innovation, age, and ownership requirements.
- Prepare the relevant company information and application responses.
- Complete the online application, preferably with the CEO providing the responses.
- Submit the application before the stated deadline.
Applicants should provide personal and company information carefully. The Forum states that the information submitted will be used to evaluate companies for the Technology Pioneers community.
Incomplete application sessions are saved for one week after the applicant's last activity. After that period, the application process must be restarted.
Application Deadline
31 January 2027, at midnight Pacific Time.
Applicants are encouraged to complete and submit their applications before the deadline.
Important Information
- The World Economic Forum selects 100 companies each year.
- Selected companies participate in the community for two years.
- Applicants must meet the minimum US$10 million Series A funding requirement.
- Companies must be independent, privately held, and less than 10 years old.
- CEO engagement is an expected part of participation.
- The opportunity does not specify a direct financial award.
- Applicants should consult the official programme website for the complete application requirements and any additional eligibility conditions.
Ready to Apply?
Visit the official World Economic Forum Technology Pioneers website to learn more about the programme and access the application.
