The Top 20 Startup Competitions in Denmark You Should Enter

Denmark’s startup ecosystem is buzzing with innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and opportunities for emerging businesses. If you’re a startup looking to gain traction, secure funding, and connect with industry leaders, participating in startup competitions can be a fantastic way to get noticed. Here’s a guide to the top 20 startup competitions in Denmark you should consider entering.

1. Vækstfonden’s Startup Competition

What it is: Organized by Denmark’s Growth Fund, this competition supports startups with high growth potential through funding and mentorship.

Why enter: Substantial funding, expert advice, and a platform to connect with investors.

Website: Vækstfonden

2. Copenhagen Fintech Week

What it is: A major fintech event that includes a competition for innovative fintech startups.

Why enter: Exposure to industry leaders, potential investment, and networking opportunities with fintech experts.

Website: Copenhagen Fintech Week

3. Startup Village

What it is: A startup competition held during the Startup Village event, focusing on various tech and digital innovations.

Why enter: High visibility, networking with fellow entrepreneurs, and potential funding.

Website: Startup Village

4. TechBBQ

What it is: One of Denmark's largest startup and tech festivals, featuring a competition for startups in various sectors.

Why enter: Extensive media exposure, networking opportunities, and potential partnerships with industry leaders.

Website: TechBBQ

5. Innovation Fund Denmark’s Innovation Awards

What it is: A prestigious competition aimed at promoting innovation across multiple sectors.

Why enter: Access to significant funding, mentorship, and recognition for groundbreaking ideas.

6. Nordic Startup Awards

What it is: Celebrates the best startups in the Nordic region, including Denmark.

Why enter: Regional recognition, networking with top entrepreneurs, and potential for expansion across the Nordics.

Website: Nordic Startup Awards

7. Danish Design Award

What it is: A competition focusing on startups with innovative design solutions.

Why enter: Exposure to design industry leaders, potential for collaboration, and recognition for outstanding design.

Website: Danish Design Award

8. Startup Grind Copenhagen

What it is: A global startup community that hosts pitch competitions and networking events.

Why enter: Access to a global network, mentorship, and exposure to investors.

9. Danmarks Erhvervsfremmebestyrelse (DEB) Startup Award

What it is: An award by the Danish Business Promotion Board, aimed at supporting innovative startups.

Why enter: Funding, mentorship, and support from the Danish government.

Website: DEB

10. Danish Startup Awards

What it is: An annual competition recognizing the best startups across Denmark.

Why enter: National recognition, networking opportunities, and media exposure.

11. Venture Cup Denmark

What it is: A national competition offering support to startups in various stages of development.

Why enter: Funding, mentorship, and a comprehensive support network for startups.

Website: Venture Cup Denmark

12. The Danish Entrepreneurial Awards

What it is: Awards recognizing outstanding entrepreneurial efforts across Denmark.

Why enter: Recognition of your achievements, networking with industry leaders, and potential for funding.

13. Copenhagen Business Hub

What it is: An innovation hub offering pitch competitions for startups in Copenhagen.

Why enter: Local exposure, mentorship, and networking opportunities within Copenhagen's startup ecosystem.

14. Innovation Challenge Denmark

What it is: A competition aimed at fostering innovative solutions across various industries.

Why enter: Access to funding, support, and the chance to showcase your innovation.

15. Startup Bootcamp Copenhagen

What it is: An accelerator program that includes a competition for startups.

Why enter: Mentorship, resources, and funding opportunities from experienced entrepreneurs.

Website: Startup Bootcamp Copenhagen

16. Green Tech Challenge

What it is: A competition focusing on startups with innovative green technology solutions.

Why enter: Support for sustainable innovations, networking with environmental experts, and potential funding.

17. Techstars Copenhagen

What it is: A global accelerator with a program in Copenhagen, featuring pitch competitions for startups.

Why enter: Global exposure, mentorship from industry leaders, and potential for substantial funding.

18. Next Level Startups

What it is: A competition aimed at startups that have reached a growth stage and are looking to scale further.

Why enter: Support for scaling operations, mentorship, and potential partnerships.

19. Startup Showcase Denmark

What it is: An event where startups can showcase their innovations to a panel of judges and potential investors.

Why enter: Direct exposure to investors, feedback on your business model, and networking opportunities.

20. The Danish Innovation Award

What it is: A competition recognizing the most innovative startups and their impact on various industries.

Why enter: National recognition, opportunities for funding, and exposure to key players in the innovation sector.

Conclusion

Participating in startup competitions in Denmark can provide invaluable opportunities for your business. From securing funding and gaining exposure to accessing a network of industry experts, these competitions are a powerful way to accelerate your startup’s growth. Make sure to research each competition’s criteria, prepare a compelling pitch, and get ready to showcase your innovative ideas. Here’s to a successful 2024 in Denmark’s vibrant startup ecosystem!