Rocket Fuel
Stage

The Rocket Fuel Pitch Competition returns for its fifth edition.

 

Rocket Fuel is LEAP’s startup program, designed for founders building high-growth technology companies.

 

Eligibility for Rocket Fuel is assessed through a separate application process as part of the LEAP's Startup Program.

 

ROCKET FUEL APPLICATIONS HAVE CLOSED

 

MEET OUR SHORTLISTED STARTUPS HERE.

 

Pre-register for 2027, or purchase a Founder pass to explore and network instead. 

JOIN THE FOUNDER COMMUNITY REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR 2027
32+
TOTAL COUNTRIES
100
Pitches
$1 Million
Prize Fund (Equity-Free)
20
Hours Pitching

The Rocket Fuel Competition

The Rocket Fuel Pitch Competition returns for its fifth edition – and your startup is invited. 
Join 100 startups competing for a prize fund of $1 Million in equity-free awards (separate filtration process applies).

DISCOVER THE AWARDS

The Rocket Fuel Pitch Competition features SEVEN award categories, with startups assessed based on size, scale, social impact, funding raised, years in operation and team size.

 

Successful applicants will pitch live at LEAP from 31 August–3 September 2026 in front of a panel of global investors and entrepreneurs. The top contenders will advance to the Grand Finale on 3rd September, where SEVEN winners will be named across the following categories:

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The LEAP Award

$250,000

 

Awarded to the most outstanding startup across the entire competition.

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The Shooting Star Award

$150,000

 

For an early-stage startup at the beginning of its journey.

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The Scaling Star Award

$150,000

 

For the strongest late-stage startup with clear unicorn potential.

High-value networking

The Tech for Humanity Award

$150,000

 

For startups creating solutions that drive positive societal impact.

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The Into New Worlds Award

$150,000

 

For a company pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

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LEAP Landing Award 

$100,000

 

For a non-Saudi startup with high-growth potential looking to soft-land in Saudi Arabia.

 

LEAP Founder Award 
($50K)

 

For the most promising founder, voted in partnership with the crowd. 

HALL OF FAME