Welcome to the Academia Cohorts
Pitch for Web Summit 2026
How Cohorts Work
Each cohort brings together students learning entrepeneurship at the same time, working toward the same deadline, with a real prize at the end.
This one's prize is Web Summit, the next one will be something new.
Check below the timeline for the 2026 Fall Academia Cohort:
3. Submit your pitch by October 16th
It’s time to turn your idea into your strongest pitch. Check this template, fiill it with your startup idea and submit by October 16th for the chance to make the Top 10.
Do you already have a pitch deck? Skip the previous steps and submit directly here.
Do you already have a pitch deck? Skip the previous steps and submit directly here.
4. Top 10 Pitches on October 29th
The Top 10 pitches take the online stage on October 29th. Two teams will earn their place at Web Summit 2026.
5. Pitch at Web Summit
Take your idea to the world stage. Pitch at Web Summit 2026 in Lisbon, November 9–12.
Benefits of being part of Academia as a student
This fall, Academia gives you more than courses, it gives you the courses, a community, and a real shot at Web Summit.
Free
World-Class Courses
Get feedback on your pitch, ask questions, and connect with founders in this cohort, and with alumni who've already been where you are. You don't have to build alone.
A Community That
Backs You
This cohort's outcome isn't a certificate, it's the stage. Submit your pitch deck, make the Top 10, and the strongest pitch earns a spot at Web Summit 2026.
A Real Shot at
Web Summit +
Youth Acceleration Sessions
Participate in our online forum, share thoughts and ideas, increase connection, get help with your studies.
Submit your pitch!
Through submitting your pitch bellow you're applying to the Academia 2026 Fall Cohort prize!
FAQs
Is there a deadline to be part of this cohort?
Yes. The pitch deck submission deadline is October 16th. Complete the courses and submit your pitch deck before then to be considered for the Top 10 and a shot at Web Summit.
What exactly do I win if I’m selected?
The winning pitch gets one spot to pitch live at Web Summit 2026, in front of a global audience of founders, investors, and industry leaders. You'll also get access the Youth Acceleration Sessions, a meeting with our Portfolio team for evaluation and guidance on your next steps, plus access to 2 Rocket Sessions, normally reserved for UFL incubated startups.
Do I need to complete all six courses before submitting my pitch deck?
No, but we recommend it, especially “From Idea to Impact", which is built to help you shape a pitch that lands.
What happens after I submit my pitch deck?
All submitted pitch decks are reviewed, and the Top 10 will be announced on October 26. Those 10 teams pitch live to our partners on October 29, and one pitch earns the single spot at Web Summit 2026.
What if I miss the October 16 deadline?
Pitch decks submitted after October 16 won’t be considered for this cohort’s Top 10 or Web Summit selection. You’re still welcome to complete the courses and join the next cohort’s pitch process.
Is there any kind of evaluation?
The courses themselves are pressure-free with no grading, so you can learn at your own pace. Your pitch deck, however, is evaluated: it determines the Top 10 and, ultimately, who wins the spot at Web Summit.
What are the pitches judged on?
Our partners evaluate pitches on five criteria: Innovation & Creativity, Clarity of the Idea, Market Fit & Opportunity, Business Viability, and Pitch Delivery.
Can I reach out if I have questions?
Yes. Go to the “Community” section in the header to ask questions and connect with others in this cohort. Or email us at education@unicornfactorylisboa.com.
What are the rules of this Cohort?
Please check the rules on the rules page.
