Deadline: 11-Jun-2026
Falling Walls Lab Baku is part of the global Falling Walls Lab series, designed to showcase innovative ideas that address major scientific, social, and entrepreneurial challenges.
The programme provides a platform for young innovators to:
- Present breakthrough ideas in a 3-minute pitch format
- Gain international exposure and recognition
- Connect with global innovation and research networks
- Compete for a place in the Global Finale in Berlin
It is organized in partnership with the German Academic Exchange Service and Azerbaijan Technical University.
Key Focus Areas
Innovation and research
- Scientific breakthroughs across all disciplines
- Engineering and applied sciences
- Technological innovation and discovery
Entrepreneurship and startups
- Early-stage startup ideas
- Social innovation and business solutions
- Scalable entrepreneurial models
Interdisciplinary innovation
- Cross-sector solutions
- Science, technology, and society integration
- Problem-solving for global challenges
Objectives of the Competition
The programme aims to:
- Promote breakthrough thinking in science and innovation
- Support early-career researchers and students
- Strengthen Azerbaijan’s innovation ecosystem
- Connect local talent with global networks
- Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration
- Identify ideas that “break down walls” in science and society
Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply
Applicants must be:
- Students or early-career professionals in any discipline
- At least 18 years old at the time of application
They must meet at least one condition:
- 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 equivalence rules:
- MD (without dissertation) = Master’s level
- Dr. med. (with dissertation) = PhD level
Application Rules
- Only one idea per applicant
- Applicants can apply to only one Falling Walls Lab
- Previous participants of Falling Walls Lab pitches are not eligible
Programme Structure
- 3-minute live pitch presentation
- Evaluation by expert jury
- Selection of winner for international finale
Award and Benefits
Winner receives:
- Fully supported trip to Berlin
- Participation in Falling Walls Lab Global Finale
- Opportunity to pitch internationally
Additional benefits:
- Exposure to global experts and investors
- Networking with innovators worldwide
- Visibility for research or startup idea
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Originality of the idea
- Scientific or technological impact
- Clarity of presentation
- Innovation potential
- Real-world applicability
How the Programme Works
Step 1: Application submission
- Submit innovative idea for evaluation
- Ensure eligibility compliance
Step 2: Selection process
- Shortlisted candidates selected for live pitching
Step 3: 3-minute pitch event
- Present idea to expert jury in Baku
Step 4: Winner selection
- Best pitch selected for Global Finale
Step 5: International participation
- Winner competes in Berlin with global finalists
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Exceeding the 3-minute pitch limit
- Submitting more than one idea or application
- Lack of clear innovation or originality
- Weak explanation of impact or application
- Poor pitch clarity or structure
- Ignoring eligibility time limits for degrees
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Falling Walls Lab Baku
- A 3-minute innovation pitch competition
- Part of the global Falling Walls Lab network
- Focused on science, research, and entrepreneurship
- Who can apply
- Students and early-career professionals
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must meet academic eligibility criteria
- What is the pitch format
- 3-minute live presentation
- One idea per applicant
- What is the prize
- Trip to Berlin
- Participation in Falling Walls Lab Global Finale
- Can I submit more than one idea
- No, only one idea per applicant is allowed
- Can past participants apply again
- No, previous Falling Walls Lab pitchers are not eligible
Conclusion
Falling Walls Lab Baku is a high-impact innovation platform that empowers young researchers and professionals to present breakthrough ideas on a global stage. By offering international exposure and access to leading innovation networks, it supports the next generation of scientific and entrepreneurial leaders.
For more information, visit Falling Walls Foundation.