World Economic Forum Technology Pioneers 2027

Applications are open for the World Economic Forum Technology Pioneers 2027, a global opportunity for innovative companies developing technologies and business models with the potential to address major challenges facing society and the planet. The initiative brings selected entrepreneurs into an international community where they can exchange ideas, contribute expertise and engage with influential leaders from business, government, academia and civil society.

The programme is organised by the World Economic Forum, an international organisation that provides a platform for cooperation between leaders across different sectors. Established in 2000, the Technology Pioneers community recognises promising companies that are designing, developing and deploying technologies with the potential to transform industries and create meaningful social or economic impact.

Each year, the Forum selects approximately 100 companies to join the community for a two year period. Selected companies gain opportunities to participate in relevant Forum meetings, workshops, innovation discussions and gatherings for members of the Innovator Communities. They can also contribute perspectives on emerging technologies and their implications for industries, governments, communities and the wider world.

About the Opportunity

The Technology Pioneers community aims to give emerging technology companies a voice in conversations about the future of business and society. Through engagement with the World Economic Forum, selected companies can share their expertise, contribute to discussions about technological change and connect with people working on global challenges.

The initiative recognises innovation across a broad range of fields, including artificial intelligence, information technology, healthcare, life sciences, energy, environmental sustainability and other areas where technology can produce meaningful change.

Participation lasts two years. Chief executives should expect to dedicate at least five hours per quarter to engagement with the Forum and attend at least one global event each year during their tenure. Invitations to specific meetings depend on the event and its relevance to the company. Selection does not automatically guarantee an invitation to the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos.

Opportunity Benefits

Selected Technology Pioneers can access the following benefits:

• Membership in a global community of innovative technology companies.

• Opportunities to interact with business leaders, scientists, academics, government representatives and other innovators.

• Invitations to relevant World Economic Forum meetings, workshops and events.

• Opportunities to contribute to discussions and workstreams addressing global challenges.

• Greater visibility through the Forum’s communications and media platforms.

• Opportunities to exchange knowledge, build relationships and explore potential collaborations.

• A platform to share expertise on emerging technologies and their wider implications.

• Participation in tailored gatherings for members of the Forum’s Innovator Communities.

The programme is primarily a recognition, networking and engagement opportunity. Applicants should not assume that selection includes a cash grant, investment, travel funding or automatic access to every World Economic Forum event.

Eligibility Criteria

Companies applying for the Technology Pioneers 2027 cohort should meet the programme’s requirements.

• The applicant must be a company developing and bringing an innovative technology or business model to market.

• The technology or business model should have the potential to generate substantial, long term positive impact on society or the planet.

• The company must be less than 10 years old.

• The company must be independent and privately held.

• According to the current opportunity announcement, the company must have received Series A funding of at least US$10 million.

• The company should demonstrate strong leadership and the capacity to contribute time and expertise to the Forum’s work.

• The company should have a credible growth trajectory and a business model that supports its innovation.

• The company should demonstrate potential for meaningful impact within its sector and beyond.

Selection Criteria

Applications are assessed on the company’s ability to demonstrate both technological innovation and a realistic path towards impact.

• Innovation: The company offers a distinctive technology or business model and demonstrates leadership in its field.

• Impact: The solution has the potential to make a substantial, long term contribution to business or society.

• Company development: The company meets the age and ownership requirements and demonstrates growth potential.

• Leadership: The leadership team has a clear vision and can contribute expertise to the Forum’s activities.

• Funding: The company has secured an appropriate level of early growth funding.

• Valuation: The company aligns with the Forum’s published valuation criteria.

Required Application Information

Applicants should be prepared to provide accurate information about their company and its development. This may include:

• Company background and founding details.

• Description of the technology, product or business model.

• Explanation of the problem the company addresses.

• Evidence of innovation and differentiation from existing solutions.

• Information about the company’s impact and growth potential.

• Details of funding received and current business development.

• Information about the leadership team and its relevant experience.

• Other company information requested through the official application portal.

The World Economic Forum states that information submitted by applicants is treated confidentially and used to assess their suitability for the community.

How to Apply

1. Review the official programme information. Visit the World Economic Forum’s Technology Pioneers pages and read the eligibility requirements and selection criteria carefully.
2. Assess your company’s readiness. Confirm that the company meets the age, ownership and funding requirements and can demonstrate a market ready innovation with meaningful impact potential.
3. Prepare your company information. Gather accurate details about the technology, business model, funding, leadership, growth and impact.
4. Complete the online application. Access the application through the official World Economic Forum Technology Pioneers programme page and provide all requested information.
5. Check your submission. Ensure that the application is complete, consistent and supported by clear information before submitting it.
6. Submit before the deadline. Applications for the 2027 cohort close on January 31, 2027. Incomplete application sessions may only be retained for one week after the last activity, after which applicants may need to restart the process.