If you’re a young innovator with a bold idea, Venture-Z is calling your name.
This startup competition is designed specifically for “Generation Z” — individuals or small teams of up to five members — who are ready to transform early-stage concepts into scalable businesses.
Organized as part of ICSDI 2026, the 3rd International Conference on Sustainability: Developments and Innovations, Venture-Z is all about supporting ventures that make a difference in sustainability, technology, and social impact.
Explore the Competition Tracks
Venture-Z isn’t just any startup contest — it offers clear pathways for your idea to shine. Participants can submit ventures across three main focus areas:
-
Smart Infrastructure & Sustainable Engineering: Think AI-driven solutions in civil projects, water management, energy systems, transportation, or other infrastructure innovations.
-
Environmental Intelligence & Climate Action: Innovations that tackle climate resilience, green technology, environmental protection, or resource efficiency.
-
Urban Innovation & Community Well-being: Projects that improve urban living, mobility, healthcare, governance, or social impact in cities.
No matter the track, the goal is to nurture solutions that could change the world.
Rewards That Make a Difference
Venture-Z isn’t just about recognition — it’s about helping startups grow. Top participants can expect:
-
Cash prizes: 1st place takes roughly 30,000 SAR, 2nd place 20,000 SAR, and 3rd place 10,000 SAR.
-
Mentorship and networking: Gain exposure to global investors, industry leaders, and sustainability experts.
-
International stage: Teams and individuals from anywhere in the world are welcome to join.
These prizes and opportunities aim to accelerate ideas from concept to reality.
Who Can Apply
The competition is designed for energetic, ambitious young entrepreneurs:
-
Individuals 18 years and older, including students and early-career founders.
-
Solo innovators or teams of up to five working on a startup or early-stage business idea.
-
Ventures in any industry, provided they fit within the competition’s focus tracks: infrastructure, environment, urban/social impact, or sustainability.
-
Global participation is encouraged — you don’t need to be from a specific country to enter.
Key Dates and How to Apply
The deadline to submit applications is 1 December 2025.
Interested participants should visit the ICSDI website, navigate to the “Students Competitions” section, and complete the registration form.
Here’s what you need to prepare:
-
A brief description of your idea or startup.
-
Explanation of how your venture aligns with one of the competition tracks.
-
Details of your team composition, if applicable.
-
Any preliminary plans or prototypes, if available.
A Platform for Young Innovators
Venture-Z is more than a competition — it’s a launchpad for Generation Z entrepreneurs who want to create meaningful change.
If you’ve got a fresh idea, a spark of innovation, and a passion for sustainability or social impact, this is your chance to step into the spotlight and take your startup to the next level.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn