The SPIE Startup Challenge, an annual pitch competition for early-stage companies in optics and photonics, has opened applications for its 2026 edition. The contest will be held during SPIE Photonics West at San Francisco’s Moscone Center, scheduled for Jan. 17–22, with the finals taking place on Jan. 20.
Now in its 16th year, the SPIE Startup Challenge provides a global stage for entrepreneurs developing photonics-based products and applications. The competition offers exposure to potential investors, feedback from business-development experts, and sponsored cash prizes of $10,000, $5,000, and $2,500, provided by founding partner Jenoptik.
A new addition in 2026 is the SPIE Jay Kumler Innovation Award, created in memory of Jay Kumler, former president of Jenoptik North America and SPIE Fellow, who passed away earlier this year. Kumler was a mentor and a driving force behind the competition. The award will be presented to the finalist whose work best reflects his commitment to advancing photonics innovation.
The challenge features two main tracks: photonics-enabled healthcare and deep tech. Judges — including venture capitalists and photonics industry executives — will assess applications based on business viability, financial sustainability, and competitive strengths. All participating teams will also receive feedback on their pitches and business strategies.
Photonics technologies are increasingly critical in industries ranging from quantum computing and autonomous vehicles to medical imaging, AR/VR, and high-speed communications. The challenge has previously highlighted companies that went on to achieve commercial success, including Cellino Biotech, Double Helix Optics, PhotoniCare, Circle Optics, C. Light Technologies, and In A Blink.
Applications for the 2026 SPIE Startup Challenge are due by Oct. 7, 2025. Finalists will be announced ahead of the live competition in January.
