Twenty-five years of innovation.
A new era for founders is here.
Since 2003, Imagine Cup has empowered emerging innovators to turn ambitious ideas into real-world solutions with Microsoft technology. Now part of Microsoft for Startups, Imagine Cup enters its next chapter in 2027, opening the competition to eligible early-stage startups and founders everywhere.
Imagine Cup Evolution
Imagine Cup:
What’s changing in 2027
Imagine Cup is expanding in 2027 to welcome eligible early-stage startups while preserving the competition experience, technical excellence, and recognition that have defined its legacy.
What Remains
- The Imagine Cup competition and championship experience
- Technical innovation and product excellence
- Visibility for standout startups
- Opportunities for recognition and networking across the Microsoft ecosystem
- A dedicated opportunity for student startups to develop their solutions and grow with support from Microsoft
- A startup competition for innovators from diverse backgrounds and communities
What’s New in 2027
- Open to eligible early-stage startups under two years old
- Greater focus on solutions for enterprise customers
- Increased emphasis on enterprise readiness and growth
- Seven dedicated competition categories
- More prizes and opportunities to win
- Opportunities for selected winners to receive support from enterprise sponsors
- Expanded resources and opportunities to help startups scale
25 competitions. Countless moments.
A look back at the people, ideas, and moments that have shaped Imagine Cup since 2003.
The next chapter of Imagine Cup starts here.
Explore Imagine Cup 2027, discover the competition categories, review your eligibility, and take the next step.
Meet the teams that shaped Imagine Cup
Explore winning teams, projects, companies, and technology solutions from previous years of the competition.
Ready to compete?
Put your startup to the test with Imagine Cup 2027 and compete for opportunities designed to accelerate your next stage of growth.





















