HAYWARD, Calif., July 16, 2026—Entrepreneurs from across Northern California are invited to apply

HAYWARD, Calif., July 16, 2026-Entrepreneurs from across Northern California are invited to apply for the 2026 Startup World Cup-East Bay Regional, taking place on Sept.10, 2026, at California State University, East Bay.

Hosted by Pegasus Tech Ventures and the East Bay Small Business Development Center (East Bay SBDC), the competition provides startups with the opportunity to pitch before investors and compete for a chance to advance to the Startup World Cup Grand Finale and a $1 million investment prize. Applications are open through Aug. 17, 2026, and the top 10 finalists will be announced on August 28, 2026.

The City of Hayward is proud to serve as the event's Platinum Sponsor and will once again present the $10,000 Hayward Horizon Award, recognizing a startup that demonstrates innovation, growth potential, and entrepreneurial excellence. The award reflects the City's commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic opportunity in the East Bay.

In addition to the pitch competition, attendees will have opportunities to network with entrepreneurs, venture capital investors, business professionals, students, and community leaders. This free event is expected to attract participants from throughout the Bay Area and further strengthen the East Bay's reputation as a center for entrepreneurship and innovation.

Event Information
Startup World Cup - East Bay Regional
Date: September 10, 2026
Time: 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Location: California State University, East Bay - University Union Multipurpose Room
25800 Carlos Bee Boulevard, Hayward, CA, 94542

Application Deadline: August 17, 2026
Top 10 Finalists Announced: August 28, 2026

For applications, registration, and additional event information, please visit the East Bay SBDC Startup World Cup - East Bay Regional webpage. Questions regarding eligibility, the application process, competition requirements, sponsorship opportunities, or event logistics should be directed to East Bay Small Business Development Center (East Bay SBDC), at [email protected].