After two successful editions, the Helbling Venture Challenge 2026 is entering its third round. This year, we are once again on the search for visionary start-ups whose ideas are setting new standards at the intersection of engineering, technology, and real-world applications.
Focus 2026: Physical AIPhysical AI describes intelligent systems that perceive and understand their environment, draw conclusions, and actively act in the real world. These include:
- autonomous and semi-autonomous systems such as robots, intelligent cameras, or self-driving vehicles
- products, machines, and devices that become more capable of learning, adaptable, and efficient through AI
- technologies for the intelligent control, automation, and optimization of complex real-world processes
We are looking for start-ups that combine digital intelligence with physical impact, bringing innovation directly into the real world.
Up to ten start-ups will have the opportunity to discuss their technical solutions in a video call with experts from Helbling.
The five most convincing teams will then present their ideas live on site at Helbling.
About the Helbling Venture ChallengeThe Helbling Venture Challenge is Helbling Technik's accelerator program in collaboration with Venturelab. Our goal: to identify promising start-ups early on, provide them with targeted support and equip them with technical expertise, strategic assistance and a strong industrial partner.
With locations in Switzerland, Germany, Poland, the US, and China, we work with start-ups and companies worldwide to bring innovations to market faster, more efficiently, and with a clear market focus. Our technical expertise is based on the experience of 500 experts who contribute their know-how on a daily basis and provide new impetus for forward-looking solutions.
Attractive support package for the winning teamThe winning start-up will receive a technology due diligence and product development consulting package worth CHF 25,000, as well as the opportunity to work with our specialists in the areas of product development, industrialization, and business strategy.
The collaboration can take place at one of our international offices in Switzerland, Boston, San Diego, or Munich and offers direct access to our global expertise and modern technical infrastructure.
Apply now
Start-ups that want to further develop their innovative solutions in the field of Physical AI and benefit from our support can apply until April 12, 2026.
Click here to register: Apply now
We look forward to inspiring ideas, innovative concepts, bold visions, powerful technologies and dedicated teams with big ambitions for the future!
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.
Impressions: Final and award ceremony 2025
