We are pleased to share an invitation from the organizers of Carpathian Startup Fest 2026.

We encourage you to explore the event and consider taking part!

Founders, are you ready? Applications are now open for the Carpathian Startup Fest 2026 competition!

On June 17-18 in Rzeszów, innovators and startups will compete for prizes from a total pool of PLN 150,000, as well as the attention of 50 leading investors and investment funds. This year, there will also be in-kind prizes and an Audience Award.

How can you take part in the competition?

Simply visit the Carpathian Startup Fest website and complete the application form by March 30. After the deadline, submissions will be evaluated by representatives of investment funds and industry experts. On April 27, we will announce the list of 10 semi-finalists in the Startup category and 5 finalists in the Idea Challenge category.

Still hesitating whether to apply? We’re raising the stakes by adding the opportunity to join the 10th edition of InCredibles – Sebastian Kulczyk’s mentoring program – as well as a publication in Puls Biznesu, which for the second time this year is a co-organizer of Puls Up, a startup competition.

During this edition, projects that do not make it to the finals will also get another chance! As part of the Open Mic Pitch, startups coming to Rzeszów will have the opportunity to compete for cash prizes.

What else is in store for #CSF26?

Maja Schaefer – Co-founder and CEO of Zowie becomes the Ambassador of #CSF26!

As part of the event, Rzeszów will host hundreds of startups, leading Polish investment funds, and investors from the CEE region. The agenda includes two days of pitches, presentations, panel discussions, and keynote speeches delivered by over 120 speakers across 4 stages. For five editions now, the hallmark of #CSF has remained extensive networking and the iconic MeetUp Party!

As you can see it’s going to be big! Let your friends know that Early Bird tickets are available until April 30!

See you there!
Team #CSF