AIM Startup Competition 2026

About

A competition designed for early-stage startups to gain visibility and access to investment opportunities, culminating in a pitch event at the AIM Investment Conference where finalists present to a diverse audience of investors and government officials.

Benefits

• 🎤High-Level Visibility
  Finalists gain exposure at the AIM Investment Conference before a large audience including the Prime Minister and investors.
• 🤝Access to Investor Network
  Winners receive facilitated access to the AIM investor network and financing partners.
• 🏢Complimentary Coworking Space
  Access to a coworking space for two years via the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro.
• 📈Accelerator Program
  Winners earn a place in a structured 12-month AIM accelerator program.
• 🏆Award Recognition
  The winner receives an award presented by the Prime Minister of Montenegro.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open globally to founder-led startups seeking to scale in Montenegro's investment ecosystem
• Startups must be less than five years old and have raised less than EUR 5 million in total funding
• Must operate in agribusiness, energy, ICT, transport, or logistics sectors, with adjacent sectors encouraged to apply
• Founders must be actively involved in day-to-day management and demonstrate ambition for growth and expansion
• Applicants are assessed in either the Seed Track or Growth Track based on their funding stage.

Participation Commitments

• Must submit a standardized slide deck, a short video pitch, and an online form for application
• Finalists must pitch on the main stage at the AIM Investment Conference in October 2026
• Participation in the AIM accelerator program for 12 months is required for winners
• Must demonstrate innovation, team capability, and market viability during the assessment process.

Target Sector

Targeting sectors like agribusiness, energy, ICT, transport, and logistics

Target Location

Open to startups globally, focusing on Montenegro's emerging investment ecosystem