EY launches start-up competition

The consultancy is looking for tech start-ups for its competition. The firm is accepting applications until August 31.

The audit and consulting firm EY has launched the application phase for its "Startup Academy". Tech startups that are still in the early stages and developing a promising technology can apply until the end of August. Startups that contribute to sustainability are also explicitly encouraged to apply, according to a statement. "We will give them access to a network of investors, experts and potential customers," said Christopher Schmitz, partner at EY and curator of the "EY Startup Academy." "In addition, EY will actively support the winning startup on strategic and operational issues in later stages of the company's development."

The Academy will be held in English. Interested startups can apply on EY's website. The consulting firm advertises with a strong network of partners, which has become even larger this year. Names will be announced soon. On September 16, the Pitch Contest will take place. A jury from the network will select the finalists. The Academy runs until mid-November. Here, startups gain access to an industry network, meet potential funding partners and receive more than 30 workshops and training sessions. A winner will be chosen on November 18.

"The EY Startup Academy has top-notch mentors who continue to provide advice and support beyond the program as we expand internationally. With the EY Startup Academy, we have ignited the next rocket stage in our development," says Thomas Rappold, co-founder and CEO of fintech Divizend, which won the EY Startup Academy 2020. The start-up is currently pushing ahead with its international expansion.