For Startups
The startups are the heart of this festival. You are our first, our last, our everything. At Iceland Innovation Week you will get the opportunity to pitch, meet investors, learn about industry trends, meet like-minded people, attend parties, and enjoy Icelandic nature.
See how we curate the festival to cater to founders & startups ↓
Founders in Focus: Workshops
↪ April 28th 9:00-14:00 @Gróska Innovation Center
We’re kicking off the week where ideas are born inside the creative hub of the Science Park and Mýrin Innovation Center located in Gróska Innovation Center. Founders in Focus is a day of hands-on workshops, raw stories, and honest talks with thought leaders from Iceland and abroad. Expect laughter, aha-moments, caffeine, and community. This is startup therapy, Iceland-style.
All startup festival pass holders can sign up for this.
9:00-12:00 — Workshops
12:00-12:30 — LUNCH
12:30-14:00 — Workshops
Exclusive Founder & Investor Mixer powered by Smitten
↪ April 28th
Hosted by the Icelandic dating app that’s conquering the world, this is not your average networking event. The Smitten Startup Investor Mixer brings together the coolest founders and the hottest VCs for an evening where chemistry meets capital. No small talk just real connections and maybe, just maybe, a perfect match.
THE IIW PITCH COMPETITION:
Fermented Shark Tank🦈
The Fermented Shark Tank is a pitch opportunity open for all startups, coming from Iceland and abroad.
The twist: Optional to take a bite of “hákarl” 🦈 and a shot of Brennivín 🥃 (the Icelandic liquor) and then pitch your startup.. Note that this is not mandatory but those who dare, might get extra seconds on the clock and a secret prize!
With 3 minutes on the clock and one unforgettable aftertaste, only the boldest 5 will make it to the finals on the Future stage on April 29th.
Applications are open from November 1st 2025 until March 2nd 2026.
Please note that you have to have a ticket to Iceland Innovation Week to participate!
Maximize Your Festival Experience: Become a Startup Partner!
↪ Your event branded as an official IIW side event
↪ Logo placement on the IIW partner page
↪ 1 complimentary startup pass
↪ Partner discount on extra startup passes for your team
↪ Startup booth at the main venue*
↪ 1 exhibitor pass for manning the booth
↪ Eligable for an invite to an Exclusive Investor / Startup Mixer
↪ A slot in an official IIW- designated side venue space*
*upon request on a first come first serve basis