AIBC Startup Pitch nominations are open!

Get ready to persuade VCs, investors and Heads of Growth at top companies, because nominations for the AIBC Startup Pitch are now open.

Whether it is crypto, blockchain, Web3 or Artificial Intelligence, the AIBC Startup Pitch offers a dedicated platform to present your innovations to a curated audience of industry leaders that can accelerate your startup’s growth.

Following successful runs around Europe, the next edition of the AIBC Startup Pitch competition will take place in Manila.

Last year’s winner went from pitch to partnership in 90 days!

What is the AIBC Startup Pitch?

The AIBC Startup Pitch is an indispensable platform for startups. Its goal is to create pathways to connect with investors and showcase brilliant concepts to a global audience.

After registration closes on 15th May, six startups are chosen as finalists. The finalists will have just 3 minutes to present their ground-breaking projects before a distinguished panel of judges during during AIBC Asia in Manila, on the 3rd of June.

What does the winner get?

The winner will boost their startup’s visibility with a comprehensive package featuring a branded expo booth at an event of their choice, digital marketing services and exclusive networking opportunities.

Winners of the AIBC Startup Pitch gain access to a curated suite of complimentary services and support from our partners, including:

● Free booth at a SiGMA expo of choice

● Desk in one of the SiGMA offices around the globe of choice

● Magazine and website coverage

● Social media coverage

● A curated suite of complimentary services and support from our diverse partners

Who are the judges?

The judges come from a wide range of background but they all have one thing in common – they know how to spot a winning and innovative business idea. Have a look at the background of our judges below:

Nelson Tun Lumbres, Isla Camp:With a background in traditional banking, Nelson Tun Lumbres has spent the past 4 years growing a nationwide Web3 ecosystem. He co-founded ISLA Camp—a Web3 accelerator and developer community helping Philippine projects build and launch globally. He now leads the Philippines for Rise In × Stellar, helping builders launch on Stellar.

Shawn Tan, Trive Ventures: An entrepreneur turned investor and advisor with over a decade of experience in venture investments, strategy, and zero-to-one management. Shawn focuses on game-changing investments in Web3 and AI. He is also an advisor with TZ APAC (Tezos’ Web3 ecosystem builder) and Loyal VC (a Canada-based VC fund), a mentor with Outlier Ventures (leading Web3 accelerator) and Next Challenge Foundation (Seoul-based global accelerator), and a recognized Global Expert by Blockchain Founders Fund.

Max Morris, Cicada: Mike Morris is the Co-Founder of Cicada, a Dubai-based market making firm serving 60+ active clients across CEX and DEX markets globally. With 9+ years of experience in liquidity structuring, token economics, and exchange strategy, he has been directly involved in 1,000+ token listings spanning DeFi, infrastructure, and emerging L1/L2 ecosystems.

Ken Bassig, Guidance Ventures: A seasoned Web3 operator and investor active in the crypto industry since 2014. Ken Bassig founded Guidance Ventures, an angel fund focused on supporting founders building the next wave of Web3 ideas and experiments.

Alina Samilova, Funders.VC: With over 5 years in private crypto communities, Alina Samilova has driven revenue operations, go-to-market execution, and scalable growth systems through strong C-level networks and deep global ecosystem connectivity.

Dom de Leon, DEVCON Philippines: Dom de Leon is a dynamic tech leader with more than a decade of experience driving growth across advertising, fintech, and sustainable development. As Executive Director of DEVCON, the Philippines’ largest community of tech experts with 11 chapters nationwide, he champions an inclusive tech talent ecosystem. Bringing a unique blend of global tech innovation and meaningful local impact, Dom’s experience spans founding leadership roles in US and Middle East startups at Talino Fintech Venture Studio, and award-winning advertising work at Dentsu and Havas.

How do I sign up?

Apply here. Registration closes 15th May so don’t delay!

For inquiries, please reach out here.