The response to the third edition of the Helbling Venture Challenge has been outstanding. Numerous startups from the field of Physical AI submitted their applications, showcasing innovative technologies that combine artificial intelligence with real-world applications.
This year’s challenge focuses on intelligent systems that perceive, understand, reason, and act in the physical world. The applications covered a wide range of technologies, from robotics and intelligent sensing to autonomous systems, industrial automation, health technologies, and sustainable infrastructure solutions.
The Top 10 Startups
Following a thorough evaluation process, we are excited to announce the ten startups advancing to the next stage of the Helbling Venture Challenge 2026:
- Binabik GmbH
- CHoNova AG
- Algorized SA
- DigeHealth SA
- refarm GmbH
- Inverto Earth AG
- Manukai AG
- RELiYOO AG
- TALPA Inspection AG
- Déploya
These startups stood out through their innovative technologies, strong engineering capabilities, and potential to create meaningful impact in the rapidly evolving field of Physical AI.
What Happens Next?
Over the coming weeks, our experts and jury members will take a deeper dive into the technologies, engineering challenges, and innovation potential behind each of these solutions.
The goal is to identify the Top 5 startups that will advance to the final stage of the competition.
An Exclusive Support Package Worth CHF 25,000
The winning startup will receive an exclusive technology due diligence and product development consulting package worth CHF 25,000.
The package includes expert support in areas such as technology assessment, product development, industrialization, and business strategy. The collaboration can take place at one of Helbling’s international locations in Switzerland, Boston, San Diego, or Munich.
Congratulations to the Top 10
We would like to congratulate all selected startups on reaching this important milestone. We look forward to working with the teams over the coming months and learning more about their technologies and ambitions.
The Helbling Venture Challenge continues to demonstrate the remarkable innovation emerging in the field of Physical AI. We are excited to see how these startups develop and look forward to the next stage of the challenge.
Stay tuned as we move one step closer to the Final Celebration on 15 September 2026.
Save-the-date
Helbling Venture Challenge 2026 Final
Mark September 15, 2026 in your calendar that's when the grand finale of the Helbling Venture Challenge 2026 will take place at the Event Hangar Dübendorf.
The top five start-ups will present their visionary ideas in a thrilling final pitch to a renowned jury. The winning start-up will then be selected and can look forward to receiving a support package worth CHF 25,000.
You can look forward to an inspiring event with innovative projects, valuable exchanges, and exciting insights into the future of Physical AI.
