Top 10 Startups
Top 10 Startup Pitch · 2026

Ten startups. One stage. Countless opportunities.

The Maritime World Top 10 Startup Pitch gives founders a direct line to industry leaders, investors, government representatives and decision-makers from across the global maritime sector.

Supported by
Transport Malta
Malta Enterprise
Apply Now Get more info
The Opportunity

Your innovation, our stage, the world watching.

The Top 10 Startup Pitch is a curated showcase for maritime, port-tech, offshore, sustainability and digital startups solving real problems for the industry. Selected finalists take the Main Stage on Day 1 of Malta Show 2026 in front of shipowners, ports, government officials, investors and the international maritime community.

27 November 2026 · Malta Show Time to be confirmed Main Stage · MCC, Valletta
Who can apply

Open to founders worldwide.

  • Startups
  • Scaleups
  • SMEs
  • Technology Companies
  • CleanTech Ventures
  • Maritime Innovation Projects
  • Energy & Sustainability Solutions
Applicants from all countries are welcome.
What selected finalists receive

The stage, and everything around it.

  • Live Pitch Session at Maritime World Malta 2026
  • Complimentary Event Passes
  • International Exposure
  • Networking Opportunities
  • Access to Industry Leaders
  • Meetings with Investors and Decision-Makers
  • Hotel Accommodation for CEO / Founder
  • Maritime World Trophy for the Winner
No equity required. No participation fee.

Pitch format

Each finalist will receive:

  • 5-minute Pitch Presentation
  • 3-minute Q&A Session

Evaluation criteria

Projects will be evaluated based on:

  • Innovation
  • Market Potential
  • Industry Impact
  • Feasibility
  • Presentation Quality
Application & selection

From application to the Main Stage.

Application process

Applications open: Immediately  ·  Deadline: 15 August 2026 · 12:00 Noon CET

Phase 1

Application Review & Verification

Every submission is reviewed and verified against the entry criteria.

Phase 2

Selection of the Top 10 Finalists

Ten finalists are selected to pitch live at Malta Show 2026.

Phase 3

Live Pitch Session

Maritime World Malta Show 2026.

Date: 27 November 2026
Location: Mediterranean Conference Centre (MCC), Valletta, Malta
Why apply

More than a pitch.

Present on an international stage
Increase visibility
Meet potential partners and clients
Access maritime decision-makers
Build valuable industry connections
Accelerate commercial opportunities

Ready to pitch?

Apply today and join the next generation of maritime innovators.

Startup Pitch Application

Tell us about your company and your solution. The Top 10 finalists pitch live on the Main Stage on Day 1.

Applicant confirmation
Submit Application Download Rules & Terms PDF