PORT_2026

PORT_2026 is a 2.5-day innovation challenge for Aalto University students, taking place on 6-8 March 2026 at Viima, Aalto Design Factory (Puumiehenkuja 5, Espoo). The event is open to students from all six Aalto schools, and you can apply individually or as a team (max 5 members).

This year, participants can join one of two tracks:

Track 1: Next Generation of Culture and Media (Bachelor’s students only) Track 2: Equitable and Fair Climate Action (open to all study levels, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral candidates)

During the challenge, teams work intensively to build, test, and refine solutions to real-world challenges. Participants receive mentoring from experts within Aalto’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and pitch their ideas on stage to a jury.

The two track winners will represent Aalto internationally. The Track 1 winner will travel to Seoul, South Korea, to compete in the Global Student Startup Competition. The Track 2 winner will participate in the INNOVA Europe Annual Summit at Aalto and attend the European Innovation Academy in Porto, Portugal. At the international stage, teams will compete alongside students from universities such as the University of Southern California (USC), Politecnico di Milano, Harvard University, EDHEC Business School, UC Berkeley, and more.

In addition, one overall winner selected through peer voting will receive a 2,000€ cash prize. Beyond the competition, PORT_2026 serves as a launchpad for bold student ideas, offering continued mentoring and support after the event.

Ready to test your idea on an international stage? Apply now and join PORT_2026!