Launching Supernova NXTFood at Gulfood Startups
For the first time ever, supernova pitch competition will power up the world’s largest F&B event — and you can be part of it. Gulfood Supernova NXT will give your startup the stage to showcase your groundbreaking food-tech and sustainability innovations to global investors, venture capitalists, and industry leaders.
From revolutionary ingredients to next-gen food solutions, this is where your bold ideas can secure funding, and opportunities to scale globally.
2026 SUPERNOVA TIMELINE
- Application Deadline: 26th December 2025
- Semi-Finalists Announced: 12th January 2026
- Semi-Finalists Pitch: 27th & 28th January 2026
- Finalists Pitch Prep Day: 29th January 2026
- Finalists Pitch & Awards Ceremony: 30th January 2026
HOW CAN YOU APPLY?
To take part in the Gulfood Supernova NXT pitch competition, you must be an exhibiting startup at Gulfood. Once registered as an exhibitor, you’ll be eligible to apply for the challenge.
After submitting your application, you’ll receive updates via email regarding your selection status for the Semi-Finals, based on the official timeline.
FAQ
You must be an exhibiting startup at Gulfood. Once registered, you’ll gain access to the Exhibitor Portal (Ezone). Submit your pitch deck, elevator pitch video, and application form via the portal to be eligible.
The winner of the challenge will be awarded equity-free funding.
You’ll be contacted by the team within one week of the event to arrange your prize and next steps.
You can still engage with investors and a wider audience. A waitlist is maintained for last-minute changes.
50 startups will pitch in the semi-finals (Day 2&3)
10 finalists will pitch in the finals (Day 5)
26th December 2025 at 23:59 Gulf Standard Time
Your pitch deck should clearly include the problem you're solving, your solution, business model, market, traction, and team. Here is a good reference for you: How to structure your pitch deck
Your 60 second pitch video should clearly convey your startup’s purpose, the problem you're solving and why it matters - no jargon, just clarity and confidence. Aim to spark curiosity and make investors want to hear more.
The video must not be more than 60 seconds - submissions longer than this will NOT BE CONSIDERED. It must be in English and clearly show your upper body (sitting or standing). Submit your video via YouTube or Vimeo URL.
Reference video: The 1 minute Pitch - Keep it Simple
12th January 2026
- Market Opportunity: Size, competition, scalability
- Business Model: Revenue, pricing, target customers
- Team: Skills and capability to execute
No. Each year there is a new selection process. If you miss your pitch, your spot will be given to the next runner-up.
While we’re unable to provide individual feedback due to the high volume of applications, please know that every submission is carefully reviewed by our judging panel. We truly value the effort behind your application.