Deadline: 17-May-2026
The Falling Walls Lab Rennes is an international pitch competition where students and early-career professionals present breakthrough ideas in just three minutes. Part of the global Falling Walls Lab initiative, it focuses on innovation, scientific communication, and societal impact. The programme offers a platform for emerging innovators to showcase ideas that can “break walls” in science and society.
The Falling Walls Lab Rennes is a competitive innovation event held in Rennes. It provides a global stage for participants to present high-impact ideas in a concise format.
Core Objective
To identify and promote innovative ideas with real-world impact through a structured three-minute pitch.
What is the Falling Walls Lab?
The Falling Walls Lab is a worldwide initiative that:
- Encourages interdisciplinary innovation
- Supports early-career researchers and professionals
- Promotes solutions to global scientific and societal challenges
Key Concept: “Breaking Walls”
Participants must present ideas that:
- Challenge existing barriers
- Offer innovative, evidence-based solutions
- Create measurable positive impact
Competition Format
3-Minute Pitch Presentation
Participants are required to:
- Deliver a clear and structured pitch within 3 minutes
- Cover:
- Problem
- Solution
- Impact
Evaluation Criteria
Judges assess:
- Innovation and originality
- Scientific or societal relevance
- Clarity and communication skills
- Feasibility and impact potential
Key Focus Areas
The competition is open to all disciplines, including:
- Science and technology
- Social innovation
- Health and medicine
- Environment and sustainability
- Education and policy
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement
- Must be 18 years or older
Academic Eligibility (At Least One)
- Currently enrolled at a university, OR
- Bachelor’s degree completed within the last 10 years, OR
- Master’s degree completed within the last 7 years, OR
- PhD completed within the last 5 years
Additional Requirements
- Applications must be submitted in English
- Only one application per person
- Individual applications only (no teams)
- Previous participants are not eligible
Special Note
- Medical degrees are considered equivalent based on qualification level
Why This Competition Matters
Promotes Innovation
- Encourages bold and transformative ideas
Enhances Communication Skills
- Trains participants to present complex ideas clearly
Builds Global Visibility
- Connects innovators with international audiences
Supports Career Development
- Provides recognition and networking opportunities
Important Participation Details
- This is not a funding programme
- It is a pitch competition focused on idea presentation
- Participants must apply to the nearest Falling Walls Lab location
Costs
- Travel and accommodation are not covered
- Participants must plan and fund their own attendance
How the Competition Works
Step 1: Application Submission
- Submit your idea and academic details
Step 2: Screening and Selection
- Applications evaluated for eligibility and innovation
Step 3: Pitch Preparation
- Develop a compelling 3-minute presentation
Step 4: Live Pitch Event
- Present your idea in Rennes
Step 5: Evaluation and Recognition
- Judges select top performers
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
- Ensure you meet age and academic criteria
Step 2: Develop Your Idea
- Focus on:
- Innovation
- Impact
- Feasibility
Step 3: Prepare Application
Include:
- Idea summary
- Academic background
Step 4: Submit Application
- Ensure submission is in English
- Follow official deadlines
Step 5: Prepare Your Pitch
- Practice delivering within the 3-minute limit
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading the pitch with technical details
- Lack of clear structure
- Exceeding the time limit
- Weak explanation of impact
- Attempting group submissions
Pro Tips for Success
- Keep your pitch simple and focused
- Use storytelling techniques
- Practice timing thoroughly
- Highlight real-world impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Falling Walls Lab Rennes?
An international pitch competition where participants present innovative ideas in three minutes.
2. Who can apply?
Students and early-career professionals meeting eligibility criteria.
3. Is this a funding programme?
No, it is a pitch competition, not a grant scheme.
4. Can teams apply?
No, only individual applications are accepted.
5. What language is required?
All applications must be submitted in English.
6. Are travel costs covered?
No, participants must usually cover their own expenses.
7. Can previous participants apply again?
No, participation is limited to one time.
Conclusion
The Falling Walls Lab Rennes is a powerful platform for emerging innovators to present transformative ideas.
For more information, visit Falling Walls Foundation.