Deadline: 02-Aug-2026
The Falling Walls Foundation is inviting applications for the Falling Walls Lab Competition, offering students and early-career professionals an opportunity to present breakthrough ideas and innovative research with positive impact on science and society.
The competition allows participants to pitch their ideas in just three minutes before an international jury of experts and innovators.
Focus Areas
The programme supports:
- Scientific innovation
- Technology solutions
- Social impact ideas
- Breakthrough research
- Creative problem-solving
- Entrepreneurship and innovation
- Interdisciplinary research
Projects may address:
- Science and technology challenges
- Business and innovation
- Social and environmental issues
- Public policy and society
- Health, education, and sustainability
Programme Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Opportunity to pitch before an expert jury
- International visibility
- Networking opportunities
- Access to global innovation communities
- Connections with researchers and professionals
Participants in the Guatemala City Lab will:
- Present innovative ideas live
- Engage with experts and innovators
- Build international collaborations
Funding Information
The programme:
- Does not provide direct grant funding
- Is not a grant-making initiative
Important notes:
- Travel and accommodation for local Labs are generally not covered
- International Lab support depends on local organisers
- No ticket purchase is required to apply
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Submit applications in English
- Apply individually only
Applicants must also meet at least one academic eligibility requirement:
- Currently enrolled at a university
- Bachelor’s degree obtained within the last 10 years
- Master’s degree obtained within the last 7 years
- PhD obtained within the last 5 years
Degree equivalencies:
- MD without dissertation = Master’s degree
- Dr. med. with dissertation = PhD
Eligibility Restrictions
The following are not eligible:
- Group applications
- Previous Falling Walls Lab participants
- Applicants submitting multiple applications
Applicants are encouraged to:
- Apply to the Lab nearest to their location
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Prepare a clear three-minute pitch idea
- Explain the innovation and societal impact
- Submit the application in English
- Highlight academic and professional background
- Apply through the nearest Falling Walls Lab
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Submitting unclear or overly technical ideas
- Exceeding pitch presentation limits
- Applying as a group
- Submitting multiple applications
- Failing to explain societal impact
FAQ
- Who organizes the competition?
- The competition is organized by the Falling Walls Foundation.
- Is funding provided?
- No, the programme does not provide direct grant funding.
- Who can apply?
- Students, researchers, and early-career professionals meeting the academic eligibility criteria.
- What language must applications be submitted in?
- Applications must be submitted in English.
- Can previous participants apply again?
- No, Falling Walls Lab is considered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Conclusion
The Falling Walls Foundation Falling Walls Lab Competition provides emerging innovators and researchers with an international platform to showcase breakthrough ideas, connect with global experts, and contribute innovative solutions addressing scientific and societal challenges.
For more information, visit Falling Walls Foundation.