Future Unicorns Wanted: An exclusive exhibition opportunity for early-stage startups at the EU-Startups Summit 2026
On May 7-8, Malta will once again become the meeting point for Europe’s most ambitious founders and investors as we host the 12th edition of the EU-Startups Summit. The event will gather up to 2,500 founders, startup enthusiasts, corporates, angel investors, VCs, and media from across Europe – all with a focus on startups with global ambitions.
As part of this upcoming edition, we’re launching the Future Unicorns programme – a special exhibition opportunity designed for Europe’s most promising early-stage startups, giving up to 20 selected teams the chance to present their early-stage startup to a highly relevant and engaged audience through a discounted startup pod package.
What’s included?
The discounted startup pod package for the Future Unicorns programme includes:
- A branded startup pod in the Exhibition Hall
- 2 tickets to attend both days of the event
- Access to the event’s networking app (including a virtual company profile and lead generation features)
- Logo featured in the event booklet, and the company mentioned in our Exhibition Overview article
This offer is designed to provide early-stage teams with a cost-efficient way to increase visibility, connect with investors, meet potential partners, and engage directly with other players in the ecosystem – all at a significantly discounted rate.
Build exposure and connect with investors
Over two packed days, the EU-Startups Summit 2026 will offer a wide range of networking, investor meetings, and business development opportunities. Attendees will be able to:
- Participate in topic-focused networking sessions designed to facilitate meaningful connections
- Attend the “Investors on Stage” session, where each day, 15 leading investors will present their firm and focus areas on the main stage
- Use our matchmaking app, featuring direct messaging, lead capture tools, and meeting scheduling
- Join the networking drinks taking place on both days
The stage program will include fireside chats with internationally successful founders, insightful keynotes, and an exciting pitch competition featuring some of Europe’s most promising early-stage startups.
In addition to showcasing success stories, the agenda will also feature practical sessions tailored to early-stage founders, covering topics such as how to craft an effective pitch, navigating early growth, and expanding into international markets.
In total, around 1,200 companies will be represented at the event, and our buzzing exhibition hall will feature over 70 companies showcasing their products and services, from innovative startups to accelerators and innovation-focused corporates.
Who can apply?
This programme is open to super early-stage startups that meet the following criteria:
- Less than 1.5 years old
- Team of max. 5 people
- No prior funding
- Not a product line or spin-off of an existing company
Up to 20 exceptional early-stage startups will be selected to join the Future Unicorns programme, based on relevance, innovation, and stage, with selected teams receiving the opportunity to exhibit at a discounted rate.
Apply today!
Eligible startups can click here to submit their applications until January 17! After which, all applications will be reviewed, and we will get back to everyone by the end of January.
If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur preparing to start your founder journey, or simply looking to connect with startups and explore new opportunities, you can now secure your ticket to join us at the EU-Startups Summit 2026 in Malta.
And if your startup isn’t at the super early-stage level required for the Future Unicorns programme, you can still book a regular exhibition booth through the form here, at our startup-friendly rates.
The post Future Unicorns Wanted: An exclusive exhibition opportunity for early-stage startups at the EU-Startups Summit 2026 appeared first on EU-Startups.
