Build a sharp prototype with real traction in Innovation
Online · Innovation · Hosted by Microsoft
Students 16+ enrolled at accredited institutions; global competition—confirm country eligibility on the official registration flow.
Microsoft Imagine Cup asks teams to build a sharper, more useful, and more credible solution in the innovation space. Teams should choose a specific user problem and turn it into a concept or working demo that can be tested.
Judges will score not just the idea itself, but also user understanding, implementation realism, and the quality of the final presentation.
Registration
31 Mar – 1 May
Build window
2 May – 12 May
Submission
15 May
Judging
16 May – 21 May
Results
24 May
Total prize pool
Teams are responsible for the accuracy of their submissions, demos, and claims. Confirm the final rules and IP terms on the official registration page before you submit.
Confirm full rules and IP terms on the official registration site.
Cash
Mentorship
Other
Design the clearest core flow and value proposition for users in the innovation space.
Judging focus
Clarity and ease of use.
Track sponsor
Microsoft
Create trustworthy, inclusive flows that hold up for a broader range of users.
Judging focus
Accessibility, trust, and practical use.
Track sponsor
Community partners
Show a concept that could be piloted today and scaled tomorrow.
Judging focus
Impact and implementation potential.
Track sponsor
Ecosystem allies
Team structure
Teams of 1–4 are welcome. Mixed teams across design, engineering, and research are encouraged.
Who can apply
The program runs as global (online qualifiers) participation. Students, recent graduates, and early-career builders are welcome.
Rules & conduct
Teams must clearly explain their work and tooling. Confirm the final official rules on the registration link before submitting.
How winners are chosen: Expert panel
Presentation
10%
Craft
10%
World-class mentors and judges from academia and industry.
Innovation strategist
Product engineer
Design lead
Partner judge
Nandin-Erdene G.
Mentor, UX & research
Erkhembayar T.
Mentor, product & demo
Generative AI disclosure
If you used AI or automation, briefly explain where it was used, what data informed it, and any trust or risk tradeoffs.
Starter kits
Empowered by global partners
