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Deep Tech Geeks
Startup Competition

An International Startup Competition
for Disruptive Innovation

Deep Tech Geeks Startups Competition is the ultimate gateway for cutting-edge startups solving real-world challenges. Hosted by Deep Tech MEA and Global Innovation & Entrepreneurship Company, this annual competition connects visionary founders with global investors, policymakers, researchers, and ecosystem builders. Whether you’re leveraging AI, robotics, biotech, quantum computing, new materials, or advanced manufacturing,  this is your platform to shine.

Within the Deep Tech MEA ecosystem powered by GIE, and held at GITEX North Star.
Designed to spotlight deep tech startups – grounded in scientific breakthroughs, complex engineering, or new technologies.

In-person showcase in October in Dubai

Dubai

Who Should Join?

Eligibility Overview

Eligibility

Scale-up startups across the globe – ventures that have moved beyond the MVP stage.

Technology & IP

Must demonstrate proprietary technology or intellectual property with evidence of initial market entry or successful pilot outcomes.

Funding / Traction

Should have secured early-stage funding or shown measurable market traction.

Growth Readiness

Startups must be prepared to scale, commercialise their offering, or expand into new markets.

Focus Sectors

AI, robotics, quantum computing, advanced materials, biotechnology, energy technologies, deep engineering, or complex scientific innovations.

Why Deep Tech Geeks Startups Competition?

Strategic Visibility, Global
Access, Regional Scale

Dubai is emerging as a global hub for deep tech – AI, quantum, biotech, clean energy. Acts as a sandbox for experimental and disruptive ideas with investment in tech transfer, future economy, and innovation clusters Perfect entry point to expand across the GCC, Africa, Asia, being a part of the ecosystem offers:

  • Access to investors, policy leaders, and contracts with buyers
  • Strategic mentorship from global experts
Mentorship Phase – Virtual
Grow With Global Experts

One-month tailored support to prepare for your pitch and refine your strategy. Mentors may include global and local startup founders, VCs, angel investors, corporate innovation leaders, deep tech subject-matter experts, researchers.
The main topics will be included:

  • Scaling roadmap Business model validation
  • Pitching and business development strategy

Awards and Recognition

Prizes Designed for Real Startup Growth

Top finalists receive:

1st Place
  • A free pod at GITEX North Star in the Deep Tech MEA Arena
  • Flight ticket + 3 night hotel stay covered
2nd Place
  • 50% discount on the Deep Tech MEA pod at GITEX
  • Flight ticket + 3 night hotel stay covered
3rd Place
  • 25% discount on the pod at GITEX
  • Flight ticket + 3 night hotel stay covered

Plus: and MEA regional visibility for all finalists

Deep Tech Geeks 2025 Orientation Session

Competition Timeline

4th June 2025

Applications Open

15 th Aug 2025

Application Deadline

16th Aug - 30th Aug 2025

Mentorship Period

1 st Sep 2025

Final Submission Deadline

5 st Sep 2025

Winners Announcement

Competition Timeline

4ᵗʰ June 2025

Applications Open

Opening Phase

Applications Open

The application process officially begins. Submit your idea to join the competition.

15ᵗʰ Aug 2025

Application Deadline

Last Call

Application Deadline

Final day to apply. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the competition.

16ᵗʰ Aug – 30ᵗʰ Aug 2025

Mentorship Period

Expert Support

Mentorship Period

Participants receive feedback from mentors.

1ˢᵗ Sep 2025

Final Submission Deadline

Project Submission

Final Submission Deadline

Submit your final version for review after completing the mentorship phase.

5ᵗʰ Sep 2025

Winners Announcement

Big Reveal

Winners Announcement

Winners will be announced and recognized for their outstanding work.

First Edition Insights & Winners

Participants
Countries
Startup

Competition Partners

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Strategic Partners

Community Partners

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FAQs

Deep Tech Geeks Startups Competition is the ultimate gateway for cutting-edge startups solving real-world challenges. Hosted by Deep Tech MEA, this annual competition connects visionary founders with global investors, policymakers, researchers, and ecosystem builders. Whether you’re leveraging AI, robotics, biotech, quantum computing, new materials, or advanced manufacturing, this is your platform to shine.

Any scale up startup that: Is developing a solution based on advanced or emerging technologies Operates in sectors such as AI, biotech, cleantech, robotics, IoT, cybersecurity, quantum computing, etc.

Scale-up startups that have already secured initial funding and are looking to scale

Top 3 winners receive free or discounted pods at GITEX North Star, along with accommodation and travel support, Visibility in front of investors, corporates, and ecosystem leaders, Tailored mentorship via the Entrepreneurship Clinic, Media exposure, potential funding, and partnership opportunities.

You can apply directly through our website!
Click the Apply Now button and fill out the form with your startup’s details.

Applications close on 15th Aug — don’t miss out!

No, applying is completely free. Selected finalists may receive full or partial sponsorship to participate in GITEX North Star, depending on their placement.

Yes. The finalist startups will be showcasing at Expand North Star (part of GITEX Global) in Dubai. Travel support is provided for the first place winner.

Finalists will receive:

  • Pitch training and feedback sessions
  • Guidance on booth setup and business matchmaking opportunities