MassChallenge Challenge Programs 2026–27

Who can apply

• Pre-seed to Series A startups based anywhere in the world (Boston residency not required)
• Your solution must answer at least one partner's published challenge statement
• At least one founder or C-suite member must attend the in-person Boston sessions
• Able to commit roughly 3–5 hours a week from February to June 2027

What you get

• Matched collaboration with a corporate partner (past partners include Deloitte, Eli Lilly, Sanofi, Verizon, MassMutual, SharkNinja)
• Regular partner meetings aimed at a pilot or commercial agreement
• Mentors across marketing, legal, investment, compliance and technology
• Entry into the MassChallenge alumni and investor network

A five-month, partner-matched accelerator in which pre-seed to Series A startups work directly with a large corporate on that company's published problem statement, aiming for a pilot or commercial deal. Tracks this cycle cover climate, security and resiliency, fintech, healthcare and sustainable food systems. Applications close 9 Nov 2026 (no closing time given, so assume US Eastern and submit early). Finalists hear in December; matchmaking is 6–8 Jan 2027 and kickoff 9–10 Feb 2027 in Boston. Indian founders should budget for travel and US visas for the mandatory in-person events; equity and fee terms are not stated on the official page.

Want a stronger application?

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