Swiss deep-tech startups can apply for the ZKB Pionierpreis TECHNOPARK until 21 September 2026. The competition is looking for young companies with novel technologies that are close to market entry. The winner will receive CHF 100,000 as well as increased visibility among investors, industry and the media.
The ZKB Pionierpreis TECHNOPARK is entering its next round and is looking for startups that are breaking new ground with technological innovation. The focus is not on developing the most complex solution possible, but on ideas that stand out through originality, an unexpected approach and, ideally, a surprising degree of simplicity.
Swiss deep-tech startups founded after 30 June 2021 and whose technology is close to market entry are eligible to apply. A key criterion is the pioneering nature of the project. A bold and genuinely novel approach will be valued more highly than technological complexity alone.
The winner will receive CHF 100,000 in prize money. At the same time, the competition gives participating startups the opportunity to present their technology to a broad network of investors, industry partners and media representatives, helping them gain greater visibility within the Swiss innovation ecosystem.
Applications are open until 21 September 2026.
Further information and application
(Pictures: Technopark Zürich/Boris Adolf)
