More than a simple pitch competition, the SPIE Startup Challenge is an entry point into the community of high-tech business development. Numerous mentors volunteer their time in support of new business ventures. The 2025 finalists pitched their light-based technology business plan to a team of business development experts and investors at Photonics West.
Congratulations to Max-IR Labs, Photosynthetic B.V., and OptiCardio, awarded the top three places at the 2025 SPIE Startup Challenge. Read the full press release.
Startup Challenge
Meet the 2025 winners
The application process will open again in October 2025
For more information, sign up for emails.
Participating teams compete for sponsored prizes as well as gaining increased visibility with potential investors. See prizes below.
Industry leaders at Jenoptik understand the value of superb innovation. The company's support of SPIE Startup Challenge is unmatched.
The competition focuses on new businesses and potential startups within two areas of focus from the worldwide community of entrepreneurs.
Scientific or engineering innovation (software apps not included)
All Startup Challenge applicants receive expert feedback on their technology and business model from photonics industry leaders based on their answers in the application. Finalists go on to compete at Photonics West for cash prizes provided by SPIE Startup Challenge Founding Partner Jenoptik.
Cash prizes for winners:
1st Place - US $10,000
2nd Place - US $5,000
3rd Place - US $2,500
In addition to cash prizes, winning participants receive immediate and ongoing recognition, including:
Competition overview
Competition overview
Network of experts
Network of experts
Eligibility and application
Eligibility and application
If you have questions about eligibility, participation, expectations, sponsorship, or anything related to the SPIE Startup Challenge, please contact innovation@spie.org.
