Celebrating Innovation: Our Co-Founder Paul Andrew Joins the Microsoft Imagine Cup 2026 Judging Panel

We’re proud to announce that Paul Andrew, our co-founder and CTO, will serve as a judge for the Imagine Cup 2026. Alongside a panel of AI experts, startup founders, and Microsoft technologists, Paul will help select the next wave of world-changing ideas.

“The Imagine Cup is where creativity meets technology. I’m thrilled to help judge and see ideas that could change the world.”

Paul Andrew, Co-Founder and CTO

What is the Microsoft Imagine Cup?

Now in its 19th year, the Imagine Cup is Microsoft’s flagship global tech competition for students. Students form teams of up to four to tackle real-world problems using Microsoft technologies like Azure and AI.

This year's competition offers two tailored tracks:

• Launch: For early-stage projects, featuring a $50,000 prize and ongoing support.

• Scale: For teams with traction or seed funding, offering up to $100,000,  mentorship from Microsoft leaders, including Satya Nadella, and opportunities for deeper partnerships with Microsoft for Startups.

Participants gain access to Azure credits (up to $5,000), technical mentorship, and training to refine MVPs and pitch strategies.

Why it matters and the impact it creates

The Microsoft Imagine Cup is far more than a competition-it’s a global catalyst for innovation and a launchpad for the next generation of developers. It empowers students to transform bold ideas into real-world solutions that tackle pressing challenges, from accessibility to healthcare. Participants gain technical skills, mentorship, and access to a worldwide network of peers and industry leaders, creating an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. This experience often becomes the foundation for future careers, opening doors to investor visibility, partnerships, and ongoing support.

The impact of the Imagine Cup is evident in its success stories. Many past participants have gone on to launch startups, secure funding, and build products that make a tangible difference. Last year’s world champion, Argus, developed an AI-powered wearable to assist individuals with low vision, a solution that earned them $100,000 and mentorship from Microsoft leaders, including Satya Nadella. Over the years, the competition has engaged millions of students from more than 150 countries, proving its role as a global beacon for student-led innovation. By turning ideas into impactful products, the Imagine Cup continues to shape industries and inspire technological progress

worldwide.

The Imagine Cup 2026 promises to be an extraordinary year for student innovators. With tailored tracks for both early-stage ideas and scaling startups, participants will have access to mentorship, funding, and technical resources that can turn concepts into impactful solutions. This year’s focus on AI and emerging technologies ensures groundbreaking projects that address real-world challenges.

If you know a student who should be participating, make sure they register today – submissions close on 9^th January. Register here:  https://aka.ms/2026ImagineCupRegistration