The competition formerly known as the Startup World Cup Virginia Qualifier has a new name, a bigger identity and the same high-stakes destination.
Virginia Cup will return Sept. 17 to the Sandler Center in Virginia Beach, giving companies from across the Commonwealth a chance to compete for the title of Virginia Champion and a spot on the global stage in San Francisco, where the winner will compete for a $1 million investment prize.
The event, now branded as Virginia Cup, is designed to be more than a pitch competition. It is a statewide platform for companies ready to be seen, tested and elevated in front of investors, business leaders, regional decision-makers and the broader community.
The winner of Virginia Cup will be named the Virginia Champion, earning the right to represent the Commonwealth at the Startup World Cup Grand Finale in San Francisco. That global competition brings together winners from regional competitions around the world, all competing for a $1 million investment prize. Think you have the chops? Apply now to pitch.
The Virginia stage has already proven it can produce serious contenders.
Luminoah won the Virginia competition in 2025. In 2024, ivWatch represented Virginia and went on to place third at the world finals. Over the last two years, companies that performed on the Virginia stage have collectively raised more than $50 million.
That track record is part of what makes the 2026 Virginia Cup different. The event is not simply asking companies to apply for a few minutes on stage. It is positioning Virginia as a serious proving ground for companies with the ambition, traction and story to compete nationally and globally.
For companies across the Commonwealth, Virginia Cup offers a rare opportunity: a major live audience, investor visibility, statewide recognition and a direct path to one of the world’s largest startup competitions.
Applications are now open for companies interested in competing at Virginia Cup on Sept. 17 at the Sandler Center in Virginia Beach.
The company selected as Virginia Champion will carry more than a title. It will carry Virginia’s momentum into San Francisco.
Companies can learn more and apply at https://www.innovate757.org/vacup/.
