Johnson City to Host Startup World Cup Regional Qualifier

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Johnson City, Tennessee has been selected to host the Tennessee regional qualifier for the Startup World Cup, one of the world's largest startup pitch competitions. The event will take place as part of the city's fourth annual startup ecosystem showcase.

Why it matters

Hosting the Startup World Cup regional qualifier is a significant opportunity for Johnson City to showcase its growing startup community and attract attention from investors and entrepreneurs around the world. The event aligns with the city's efforts to position itself as an emerging hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.

The details

The Startup World Cup is an annual global startup pitch competition with regional qualifiers held in over 60 countries. The winner of the Tennessee regional qualifier in Johnson City will advance to the Startup World Cup grand finale, where they will compete against other regional champions for a $1 million grand prize investment.

• The Startup World Cup Tennessee regional qualifier will take place in Johnson City on May 15, 2026.
• This will be the fourth year Johnson City has hosted the event as part of its annual startup ecosystem showcase.

What’s next

The winner of the Startup World Cup Tennessee regional qualifier in Johnson City will advance to compete in the global Startup World Cup grand finale event later in 2026.