The AIM Startup Competition represents a cornerstone of support for startups and early-stage innovations within the framework of the Accelerating Investment in Montenegro (AIM) programme, a joint initiative of the Government of Montenegro, through the Montenegro Investment Agency (MIA), and the Delegation of the European Union.

The programme offers a structured support pathway for innovative teams, guiding them from the early stages of idea development through to achieving strong international visibility. The grand finale of the entire process will take place at the prestigious AIM Investment Conference, scheduled to be held from 19 to 21 October 2026 in Portonovi, Montenegro.

At this significant event, the finalists will have a unique opportunity to present their business ideas on the main stage in front of a global audience, while the competition winner will receive the main award from the Prime Minister of Montenegro, in the presence of high-ranking representatives of the European Union and influential international investors, opening up opportunities for further growth and business scaling.

Who can apply?

The competition is open globally to startups led by founders who are looking to scale their businesses and connect with Montenegro’s developing investment ecosystem. Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• They must be less than five years old and must have raised less than €5 million in total investments to date.
• They must operate in one of the following sectors: agribusiness, energy, ICT, transport, or logistics. Startups from related sectors are also encouraged to apply.
• They must be founder-led, with the founder actively involved in day-to-day management, and must demonstrate a clear ambition for growth and regional or international expansion.

Competition Categories

The competition is organized into two categories, with applications evaluated exclusively in comparison to other participants within their own category:

• Seed category: Startups at the pre-investment stage or with initial market traction, with little or no capital raised (approximately up to €500,000). Evaluation will focus on innovation, the team, and the adequacy of the solution to the defined problem (problem–solution fit).
• Growth category: Startups with proven market traction that have raised between €500,000 and €5 million. Evaluation will focus on market performance, business sustainability, and scalability.

What do finalists receive?

From five to eight pre-selected finalists will present their projects on the main stage in front of more than 300 participants — including the Prime Minister, ministers, the EU Delegation, investors, and corporate representatives. The winner will:

• Achieve a high level of visibility at the AIM Investment Conference;
• Gain facilitated access to the AIM network of investors and financing partners;
• Receive a free coworking space for two years at the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro (STP);
• Secure a place in the structured 12-month AIM accelerator programme.

How to apply?

Applications consist of a standardized pitch deck, a short video presentation (2–3 minutes), and an online application form. They are evaluated by a jury composed of institutional partners and ecosystem partners of the AIM programme, based on innovation, the team, the market, as well as past performance and business sustainability.

Apply by 31 July 2026 at 23:00 (CET) via the online application form available here. For more information, please contact: [email protected]