The 5th Edition of the “929 Startup Challenge is now open for registration from June 26th to September 30th, with the finals scheduled for November. The event aims to bring together high-potential startups to foster regional innovation and cross-border collaboration.

Three Key Highlights for This Year’s Edition:

1. Portugal Exchange Program
   With the support of the DSEDT, the initiative recently organized a delegation of local startups to Portugal, strengthening collaboration with innovation ecosystems in Portuguese-speaking countries.

2. New International Strategic Partnerships
   This year’s competition has partnered with globally renowned organizations, including OVIA, Connectology, and Ubimed Medicals, to provide expertise in smart cities, digital innovation, and healthcare technology. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with Startup Portugal, the country’s leading startup promoter, to accelerate innovation ties between Macau and Portugal. The collaboration will include international exchanges and market exploration initiatives to enhance connections between Macau and the Greater Bay Area.

3. Launch of an Angel Investor Network
   Officially introduced last week, this network marks a major milestone for Macau’s innovation ecosystem, offering startups long-term resources and growth support beyond the competition.

Competition Structure & Opportunities

The event features startup and university tracks, along with a dedicated one-day exhibition to facilitate networking and business matching between participants, investors, and industry partners.

Winning teams will receive:

• Cash prizes

• Professional incubation support from Macau’s top accelerators

• Access to international partner networks for global market expansion

• In-depth mentorship and strategic guidance from industry leaders

More info in our website, www.929challenge.org, or contact us at info@929challenge.org for more information and updates.