VivaTech 2026 Announces Startup Challenges Focused on AI Transformation

Paris will host the 10th anniversary edition of VivaTech from 17 to 20 June 2026, marking a decade as one of Europe’s largest technology and startup events. Organised by Publicis Groupe and Les Échos-Le Parisien Groupe, VivaTech continues to attract international startups, investors, and industry leaders. The 2026 edition will expand into Hall 7 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, including a new 2,000-seat main stage, underlining its growth and influence in the European technology sector.

A central feature of VivaTech 2026 is the launch of the Startup Challenges. This programme is designed as an open innovation platform, providing startups with direct opportunities to collaborate with C-level executives, global investors, and major corporations on real-world industry problems. Participants gain access to a network of more than 3,600 investors, receive exposure to key business audiences and media, and benefit from critical market validation. These opportunities have historically resulted in successful partnerships and funding rounds for previous winners.

The 2026 Startup Challenges are organised around five strategic themes:

• Building the Future of Cloud and Digital Infrastructure: Emphasis on developing robust, energy-efficient, and secure digital systems.
• Driving Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Innovation: Support for startups advancing decarbonisation, the circular economy, and green energy solutions.
• Accelerating AI-Driven Transformation: Open to startups using artificial intelligence to increase productivity, reinvent customer experiences, and address societal issues. AI-driven transformation typically involves leveraging technologies such as machine learning and large language models to automate tasks and extract value from data.
• Empowering the Next Generation of Women Founders: The Female Founder Award returns, aiming to address gender gaps in startup visibility and access to investment.
• Unlocking Innovation Potential Across Africa: The AfricaTech Award will continue to showcase Africa's strengths in FinTech, AgTech, HealthTech, and related sectors.

The event’s international scope is further highlighted by Germany being selected as the 2026 Country of the Year. Building on a record 180,000 attendees and over 640,000 business connections in 2025, VivaTech 2026 is positioned as a pivotal event for startups seeking global expansion.

Applications for the Startup Challenges are now open, offering founders a platform to advance solutions across a range of technology domains, including some of the most pressing issues in artificial intelligence and digital innovation.

Key Event Information:

• Event: VivaTech 2026 (10th Anniversary)
• Dates: 17–20 June 2026
• Location: Paris Expo Porte de Versailles

For more details or to submit an application, visit the official VivaTech Startup Challenges site.

Reference: tech.eu