Why Compete

Imagine Cup is more than a competition; it’s a transformative journey that helps student founders turn their innovative ideas into market-ready startups. Join to receive networking opportunities and global recognition, expert technical advice and founder guidance, and resources including $100,000 USD and access to Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub.

Get Started

A group of students working on advanced technology using virtual reality

Two students look at a computer together

Access to AI Technology

Gain free access to industry-leading AI services, increased credits with fewer restrictions, expert guidance, and essential tools to accelerate your growth and scale quickly through Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub. Build with AI that meets your unique needs using Azure AI Studio. With models like OpenAI GPT-4o, Microsoft Research Phi-3, and Meta’s Llama 3.1, you’ll have the resources to develop scalable and impactful AI solutions.

Mentorship and Guidance

Throughout the competition, you’ll receive support to grow your ideas into viable solutions, making Imagine Cup a crucial step in your ongoing journey. Receive personalized 1-on-1 coaching from Microsoft experts to refine your pitch. Within Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub, you'll gain access to the Expert Network to seek advice and feedback on immediate business challenges, and Azure Pairing sessions to get advice from Azure engineers on the latest in AI, optimizing infrastructure, reducing costs, and more.

3 students on an Imagine Cup team take a group photo

Prizes and Recognition on the Global Stage

Win up to $100,000 USD and an exclusive mentoring session with Microsoft Chairman and CEO, Satya Nadella! Compete for the opportunity to pitch your startup on the global stage at Microsoft Build, gaining international exposure.

Competition Prizes

Networking with industry professionals and advancement in Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub.

Opportunity to showcase your innovative startup on a global stage at Microsoft Build.

1-on-1 mentorship with Microsoft experts and a mentorship session with Microsoft Chairman and CEO, Satya Nadella, for the World Champion.

Cash prizes to propel your startup forward with multiple prizing opportunities, including $100,000 USD for the World Championship team and $25,000 USD for each of the two runner-up teams.

Additional Resources

Competition details

Check out the 2025 Imagine Cup Rules and Regulations for eligibility and judging criteria.

Learn more

Find inspiration

Watch past teams’ project pitches and relive their competition journey.

Check out our YouTube channel

Build tech skills

Utilize free learning paths and tutorials in Azure Cognitive Services, Big Data, Bots, and more.

Try Microsoft Learn

Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub

Gain free access to industry-leading AI services, increased credits with fewer restrictions, essential tools, and quick-start templates through Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub.