Sword Startup Challenge 2026:
Serving Wealth Management

Program

Sword launches the Startup Challenge 2026, the second edition of its Swiss innovation competition dedicated to start-ups developing solutions for the Wealth Management sector. Organized in close collaboration with Venturelab, the challenge will take place from January to June 2026.

The program aims to support innovative Swiss startups by offering both technical and commercial guidance. Throughout the challenge, participants will present how their technology solutions contribute to the digitalization of wealth management to a panel of experts and partners. 

The finalists will benefit from tailored support programs, expert insights, client introductions, and help in expanding their network of customers and strategic partners. Please find here some impressions of last year's edition. 
 

What's in it for the winning startup?

• The five finalists will benefit from exclusive support, including business case preparation sessions with Sword experts and pitch training provided by Venturelab.
• The finalists will also be introduced to financial services companies, offering opportunities for visibility and further collaborations.
• All finalists become part of the Venturelab community and benefit from public exposure through PR campaigns. 
• The winner of the Sword Startup Challenge will receive a venture clienting opportunity. This includes valuable introductions to potential customers and partners, striving for immediate growth opportunities.
• The winner will have the opportunity to present their startup to the Sword Swiss team in June and be introduced to Sword's global network.
   

Why Sword?

Our industry partner, Sword, is a global leader in IT services, specializing in the development, maintenance, and support of corporate IT systems. The expertise of Sword's skilled professionals ensures seamless support for innovation and scalability, enabling startups to achieve success in a highly competitive landscape. With its Swiss division driving innovation, Sword collaborates closely with startups to transform bold ideas into impactful technologies. 
 

Eligibility

• Are you a company that has been registered in the Commercial Register for at least one year?
• Do you have cash flow visibility over the next 12 months?
• Have you implemented your IT solution with at least one customer?
• Your startup is active in, or its solution can be applied to, the wealth management sector?
   

Program Timeline