Call for Applications: WEF Technology Pioneers 2027 for Startups Worldwide

Innovative startups developing technologies capable of reshaping industries and solving global challenges have an opportunity to gain international recognition through the World Economic Forum (WEF) Technology Pioneers Programme 2027.

The initiative invites eligible technology companies worldwide, including startups in Nigeria and other African countries, to apply for a place in its global innovation community. Selected companies will gain opportunities to connect with influential business leaders, policymakers, researchers and fellow innovators while contributing to conversations shaping the future of technology and the global economy.

For ambitious founders looking beyond conventional business growth, the programme offers a platform to showcase their innovations, build strategic relationships and increase their visibility within the international business community.

What Is the WEF Technology Pioneers Programme?

Established in 2000, the Technology Pioneers Programme identifies technology-driven companies whose innovations have the potential to transform industries, influence markets and generate meaningful economic and societal impact.

The World Economic Forum selects a cohort of companies each year to join a community of innovators working across fields such as artificial intelligence, healthcare, financial technology, climate solutions, robotics, advanced manufacturing and other emerging technologies.

Unlike traditional startup accelerators and grant schemes, the programme focuses on recognition, collaboration and engagement with the Forum’s global network. Selected companies can contribute their expertise to discussions and initiatives addressing important technological, economic and societal issues.

Benefits of the Programme

Startups selected for the 2027 cohort will have opportunities to strengthen their international presence and establish relationships that could support their long-term development.

Key benefits include:

• Global visibility: Gain recognition as a technology company identified by the World Economic Forum for its innovation and potential impact.
• Access to influential leaders: Engage with executives, policymakers, researchers and other decision-makers across the global economy.
• Strategic networking: Build relationships with fellow founders, technology experts and organisations within the international innovation ecosystem.
• Participation in global initiatives: Contribute ideas and expertise to discussions, projects and workstreams addressing emerging technological and societal challenges.
• Knowledge sharing: Exchange insights with other innovators and learn from developments influencing technology, business and economic growth.
• Opportunities for collaboration: Explore potential partnerships and connections that may support business expansion and innovation.

Participation does not guarantee investment or commercial partnerships. However, the programme provides a platform for eligible companies to present their work to a wider network of influential stakeholders.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is open to qualifying technology companies worldwide. Startups from Nigeria and across Africa can apply if they meet the World Economic Forum’s selection requirements.

According to the published eligibility information for the 2027 opportunity, applicants should meet the following criteria:

• The company must be less than 10 years old.
• It must be an independent, privately held business.
• It must have raised at least US$10 million in Series A funding.
• It must demonstrate technological innovation or a distinctive business model.
• Its innovation must have the potential to deliver significant, long-term benefits to business and society.
• Its leadership team must demonstrate the capacity to grow the business and actively participate in the programme.

The Forum also considers factors such as the company’s growth potential, leadership, technological innovation, societal impact, funding history and valuation. Its published selection criteria indicate that companies should have a valuation below US$1 billion.

Startups should carefully review the official eligibility requirements before applying to ensure their businesses meet the necessary standards.

Programme Duration and Commitment

Selected companies will join the Technology Pioneers community for a two-year engagement.

Participating chief executives are expected to contribute their time and expertise to relevant community activities and attend at least one global event each year during their tenure.

Founders should therefore be prepared to participate actively, share their knowledge and engage with opportunities to contribute to the Forum’s work.

The programme is not a direct funding initiative. It does not guarantee grants or investment, and participation does not require the World Economic Forum to take equity in the selected companies.

Application Details

• Programme: World Economic Forum Technology Pioneers Programme 2027
• Eligible applicants: Qualifying technology startups worldwide
• Duration: Two years
• Application deadline: January 31, 2027, at midnight Pacific Time, as stated in the published 2027 call
• Programme format: Global community engagement and related activities
• Direct grant funding: Not provided

Applicants should verify the deadline, funding requirements and other eligibility conditions on the official application portal before submitting their entries.

How to Apply

Interested founders should prepare relevant information about their companies, including their ownership structure, founding date, funding history, technology, business model, growth potential and expected impact.

The company’s chief executive is expected to complete the application personally and demonstrate why the business deserves recognition as a technology pioneer.

Apply Now: https://wefglobal.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3xyEqATPtJCwdca

For full programme information, visit the official Technology Pioneers website and review the World Economic Forum’s selection criteria.

For eligible startups with proven innovation and ambitions for international growth, the Technology Pioneers Programme offers an opportunity to build global visibility, engage with influential stakeholders and contribute to shaping the next generation of technological solutions.