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25 - 30 January 2025
San Francisco, California, US

SPIE Startup Challenge at Photonics West

Supporting entrepreneurs in optics and photonics businesses
SPIE Startup Challenge is held at SPIE Photonics West

See top entrepreneurs pitch the brilliance of their business plans

The SPIE Startup Challenge is held annually at Photonics West. Entrepreneurs apply to the program, and a panel of experts review the applications to offer insight into funding options and refinement of business plans. In 2025, finalists pitch their light-based technology business plan to a team of business development experts and investors at Photonics West.

More than a simple pitch competition, the SPIE Startup Challenge is an entry point into the community of high-tech business development. Numerous mentors volunteer their time in support of new business ventures.

Startup Challenge
at SPIE Photonics West

The application process is now open!
Applications are due by 16 October

Apply now



Accelerate the launch of your business


Thank you to our Founding Partner

Industry leaders at Jenoptik understand the value of superb innovation. The company's support of SPIE Startup Challenge is unmatched.

Finalists compete in two areas of focus


The competition focuses on new businesses and potential startups within two areas of focus from the worldwide community of entrepreneurs.

healthcare using mixed VR technology

Healthcare

healthcare using mixed VR technology

Deep Tech

Scientific or engineering innovation (software apps not included)

2025 Startup Challenge Prizes

All Startup Challenge applicants receive expert feedback on their technology and business model from photonics industry leaders based on their answers in the application. Finalists go on to compete at Photonics West for cash prizes provided by SPIE Startup Challenge Founding Partner Jenoptik.

Cash prizes for winners:
1st Place - US $10,000
2nd Place - US $5,000
3rd Place - US $2,500

In addition to cash prizes, winning participants receive immediate and ongoing recognition, including:

  • Promotion on optics.org, SPIE.org, social media sites (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter), press releases, and the Photonics West Show Daily
  • Opportunities to return to the Startup Challenge stage for updates on your company in the coming years

How businesses get started


Competition overview Competition overview ...
Network of experts Network of experts ...
Eligibility and application Eligibility and application ...

Questions?


If you have questions about eligibility, participation, expectations, sponsorship, or anything related to the SPIE Startup Challenge, please contact innovation@spie.org