Ericsson Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026: Free Global Startup Accelerator with Mentorship and Funding

The Ericsson Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026 is now open for global applications, offering an exciting opportunity for startups, innovators, and entrepreneurs to develop impactful solutions and scale their ventures.

This international innovation program provides mentorship, investor access, and an 8-week startup acceleration journey. Participants will work with industry experts and gain global exposure while building technology-driven solutions for real-world challenges.

Organized by Ericsson in collaboration with global partners, the program focuses on empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs across multiple sectors.

About the Hackathon

The program is designed to identify promising early-stage startups and support them through mentorship, networking, and strategic guidance. The goal is to help participants refine their business models, validate solutions, and prepare for investment opportunities.

Participants will join a structured accelerator journey that ends with a Demo Day, where they pitch their ideas to investors, corporate leaders, and innovation ecosystem partners.

Key Focus Areas

Applicants can build solutions in:

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning
• Telecommunications and connectivity
• Financial technology and digital payments
• Health technology and digital healthcare
• Agriculture and food innovation
• Education technology
• Internet of Things and smart cities
• Climate technology and sustainability
• Social innovation and impact

Program Benefits

Selected teams will receive:

• Free participation in an 8-week accelerator
• Technical and business mentorship
• Access to global investors and funding networks
• Startup growth and scaling support
• Networking with corporate and ecosystem leaders
• Global exposure and visibility
• Demo Day pitching opportunity
• Strategic partnerships and collaboration

Important Dates

• Applications open: February 2026
• Application deadline: March 10, 2026
• Accelerator program: 2026
• Demo Day: To be announced

Eligibility Criteria

Startups must:

• Have a minimum viable product (MVP)
• Demonstrate traction or pilot testing
• Show innovation and scalability
• Focus on real-world problem solving
• Promote diversity and gender inclusion

Students, researchers, founders, and early-stage startups from around the world are encouraged to apply.

Why This Opportunity Matters

The global startup ecosystem is becoming increasingly competitive, and founders need strong networks, mentorship, and funding access to succeed. Programs like this hackathon help bridge the gap between ideas and scalable ventures.

Participants gain hands-on support from experts, exposure to international markets, and insights into building sustainable businesses. This opportunity is especially valuable for startups in emerging markets seeking global growth.

How to Apply

Follow these steps:

• Complete the online application
• Submit startup details and innovation concept
• Demonstrate traction and impact
• Prepare a strong pitch and business model
• Apply before the deadline

Final Thoughts

The Ericsson Connect NextGen Hackathon 2026 is more than a competition. It is a global innovation platform that supports startups in building sustainable and scalable solutions.

With mentorship, investor access, and global networking, this opportunity can accelerate your startup journey and help you gain international recognition. If you are an entrepreneur or innovator ready to scale your idea, this program is worth applying for.