Welcome to Xcelerate - the ultimate launchpad for health and tech disruptors ready to scale. This is where breakthrough ideas meet capital, vision meets execution, and bold startups redefine the future of healthcare.
Over four high-energy days, 30 early-stage startups will compete in front of global investors for a chance to win part of a USD 25,000 prize pool and the title of Xcelerate Champion of Innovation.
Xcelerate Pitch Competition
Xcelerating What’s Next in Health
Competition open for entries
Deadline for Xcelerate competition entries: 10 January 2026
Xcelerate partners
Why join?
Be seen by global investors - pitch in front of VCs, angels, and strategic partners who are actively scouting for early-stage innovation
Win up to USD 25,000 in prizes - cash, exposure, and a guaranteed presence at WHX Dubai 2027 with complimentary startup pods for winners.
Maximise visibility - secure a startup pod at WHX Dubai 2027 to showcase your solution, network with decision-makers, and validate your product with real-world feedback
Targeted matchmaking - get matched with investors and industry stakeholders in curated 1:1 meeting throughout the event
Competition format – fast-paced, high-impact!
Total Start-ups: 30
Day 1 – 9 Feb:
10 start-ups
● Each start-up gets 3 mins to pitch and 3 mins of Q&A with judges
● Top 3 will be selected as finalists
Day 2 – 10 Feb:
10 start-ups
● Each start-up gets 3 mins to pitch and 3 mins of Q&A with judges
● Top 3 will be selected as finalists
Day 3 – 11 Feb:
10 start-ups
● Each start-up gets 3 mins to pitch and 3 mins of Q&A with judges
● Top 3 will be selected as finalists
Final Showdown – 12 Feb:
Top 9 start-ups compete for the grand Prize!
Key innovation sectors
Going beyond conventional healthcare
Maximize your participation at WHX Dubai
Connect with global & regional investors
Meet esteemed investors from across the world.
Matchmaking
Meet investors, buyers, and hospital leaders through curated 1:1 meetings during the event. It’s your chance to build partnerships, secure potential funding, and explore pilot opportunities.
Secure your start-up pod
Enhance your visibility by securing a startup pod at WHX Dubai. For details and reservations, please reach out to our sales team.
Engage and impress
Showcase your innovations and interact directly with leading investors and industry experts from your own dedicated pod.
Xcelerate competition prizes
Total Prize Pool: USD 25,000
Xcelerate Champion of Innovation
Cash Prize: USD 12,000
Including a 9 sq m Complimentary stand for 2027 edition
Mentorship Programme with Deloitte
1st Runner-Up
Cash Prize: USD 8,000
Complimentary Start-up Pod
Mentorship Programme with Deloitte
2nd Runner-Up
Cash Prize: USD 5,000
Complimentary Start-up Pod
Mentorship Programme with Deloitte
Xcelerate terms & conditions
1
Application Deadline: 10th January 2026
2
Travel & Accommodation: Startups shortlisted for the competition are responsible for their own travel/lodging