CATCH YOUR 15% LATE BIRD DISCOUNT - CODE: LATE15

CHRISTMAS DROP - 35% DISCOUNT

TICKETS SOLD 72%
PRE-REGISTER HINTERLAND26

OUT OF THE BOX. NRW AWARD

MORE

OUT OF THE BOX.NRW stands for the most innovative startups from North Rhine-Westphalia.
The next application phase starts on January 1, 2026. Applications are open until February 28, 2026.

THE BEST OF NRW

+100 Startups

25 FINALISTS

10 LIVE PITCHES

WIN 50.000€ FROM THE NRWBANK FOR YOUR STARTUP

PITCH LIVE ON STAGE IN FRONT OF EUROPES LEADING INVESTORS

Unveil the potential of your startup to present your product in front of over 900 c-level and decision makers. Dive into a dynamic environment crafted for startups to effortlessly engage with a diverse pool of potential clients. Our streamlined platform is designed to match your innovative solutions with those who need them most.

TAKE YOUR PLACE IN THE TOP 24 STARTUPS OF NRW

Our platform is designed to foster meaningful connections, making it simpler than ever to meet like-minded entrepreneurs and talented individuals eager to contribute to your vision. In this melting pot of innovation and ambition, you’ll find not just contacts, but future collaborators, employees, and friends.

LIMITED PRICE DROP

Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds
TICKETS SOLD 30%
BUY TICKET

A STRONG ALLIANCE

ABOUT THE AWARD

You’re an unconventional thinker with an innovative digital startup idea? Then this is your competition – apply to secure your spot in the Top 25 of 2026 and pitch at Out-of-the-Box.NRW.

A total of €50,000 will be awarded to the top three startups in the region – making it one of the highest prize awards in Germany. Unlock exclusive networking opportunities with our partners, press representatives, and startup experts at the Hinterland of Things Conference.

If you’re selected as one of the Top 25 Startups in 2026, you’ll increase visibility for your brand, gain credibility for your business model, and attract the attention of leading figures in business and venture capital. The top 10 startups will have the opportunity to pitch their digital startup ideas to an audience of high-profile investors, corporate decision-makers, and potential customers.

MORE

THE WINNERS OF 2024

SEE ALL 2024 STARTUPS

FAQ & INFORMATION

WHERE IS THE OOTB AWARD HELD

The Hinterland of Things Conference is a one-day event, where you connect with explicitly selected Series A/B startups, CEOs and innovation drivers. We bring Germany’s brightest innovators together to create a joint digital future with leading hidden champions. You can expect outstanding speakers and an exciting program! Meet startups on-site, experience founders & experts live on stage, listen to first-hand founder stories and much more.

You can apply for the award at https://www.outofthebox.nrw/

 

The NRW.BANK will be handing out €50,000 to the top three startups in the region ‑ making it one of the highest prize awards in Germany. The finalists and winners are selected by a jury of investors, industry leaders, and the community.