Startup Social
Reykjavik, Iceland
2026 Cohort In Session
Startup Social is a 16-week incubator that supports powerful teams that are passionate about solutions to contemporary challenges and support the United Nations’ global goals. Solutions include healthcare, welfare technology, improved education systems and equality issues. Startup Social was founded in 2018 by Höfði Peace Center, a joint initiative of the University of Iceland and the City of Reykjavik. Startup Social is run in collaboration with faculty from University of Iceland, University of Reykjavik, and University of Akureyri.
Admission Process
Partners
University of Iceland
University of Reykjavik
University of Akureyri
Location
Reykjavik, Iceland
Date
September-December 2026
Open to
Students, researchers, and entrepreneurs based in Iceland
We seek diverse, interdisciplinary teams working on challenging ideas with clear vision, passion and a drive to design solutions and launch impact-driven ventures.
Applicants go through a rigorous selection process that reviews ideas based on human and social impact, feasibility, uniqueness, and scalability as well as team composition, diversity and skillset.
Timeline
- Applications Open JULY
- Meet and Match 20 AUG
- Applications Close 27 AUG
Applications for the 2026 cohort opened in July. A selection committee will review all applications, and advance up to 16 teams for participation in the program.
- Workshops SEPT — NOV
The program includes a series of two-day workshops where participants apply DesignX tools and methods to map their innovation opportunity, build solutions, and design sustainable models for impact.
- Pitch-out DEC
At the end of the program, teams pitch to a large audience and a panel of professionals who provide valuable feedback.
FAQs
Our selection committee looks at the following criteria when evaluating applications: Is the team solving a valid problem or addressing an important opportunity? Is the proposed solution a good fit? Is the team capable of developing the necessary solution?* Is there a market need or societal need for the proposed solution?
*Teams don’t need all technical members on board, but need to have a good connection or understanding of a proposed technology if applicable
The program is in-person in Reykjavik, Iceland.
Yes, which means you and at least one more person. The maximum number of participants on a team is five people.
Alumni Ventures
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Fine Foods Íslandica
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