Sulaimani Polytechnic University (SPU) – Directorate of International Relations is pleased to announce an exclusive opportunity for SPU students to apply for the START CUP COMPETITION 2026 in Italy. This initiative is part of the RISE Project, managed by the Directorate of International Relations to facilitate student participation in prestigious international programs.
About the Program
This competition features innovative projects from students across all partner universities. An international selection committee will nominate the top 15 high-level projects from the total pool of global submissions. The selected teams will participate in the final two-day competition held in Turin, Italy, from November 23 to November 24, 2026. All participation costs, including travel and accommodation, will be fully covered by the program.
Competition Objectives
The primary goal is to showcase leadership, talent, and innovative thinking among students and young entrepreneurs from partner universities. Project ideas must contribute to solving current global challenges, such as economic, social, environmental, or health crises. Participants may utilize technology or any innovative techniques deemed appropriate by the presenting team.
Project Criteria
1. Innovation and Impact: The idea must be creative, impactful, and feasible for future implementation.
2. Resilience: The design should offer innovative solutions that demonstrate adaptability and sustainability during economic, social, environmental, or health crises.
3. Language Proficiency: The presenting team must possess a high level of English proficiency, particularly in speaking and presentation skills.
Submission Requirements
The deadline for submitting project ideas is July 8, 2026. Applications must be submitted via the following link: https://forms.gle/K3qckV9bstP3DWhw6
Applications must include:
1. Team Members’ Names: A minimum of two members per team is required. While teams may consist of more than two members, please note that if the project is selected for the finals in Italy, the program will only cover the expenses for two members.
2. Project Title: This must be submitted in English.
3. Project Summary or Introduction: A clear description of the specific problem being addressed and the proposed solution.
4. Contact Information: The email and phone number of a primary contact person are required. This is essential as follow-up meetings will be organized to refine and improve the quality of the submitted projects.
Important Notes
1. Late submissions will not be accepted after the specified deadline.
2. Projects selected for the final competition must be presented in the form of a Poster, Prototype, and a formal Presentation.