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Smart City Challenge Leipzig

Pilot contract with the city of up to EUR 25,000, plus up to EUR 10,000 if the solution is released as open source. Provided by City of Leipzig, Referat Digitale Stadt, with Smart Infrastructure Hub Leipzig.

LeipzigPrizeEquity-free

Key facts

Amount
Pilot contract with the city of up to EUR 25,000, plus up to EUR 10,000 if the solution is released as open source
Duration
Not fixed
Type
Prize
Who receives it
Founder or team
Equity
Equity-free
Repayable
No
Stages
Prototype, Pre-revenue, Revenue, Incorporated
Solo founders
Yes
Full-time required
No
Company required
Unclear
University link required
No
Application languages
DE, EN

Who can apply

  • Start-ups, founders, companies and students
  • Each round solves specific city problems (2026: AI checks of grant reports, a council chatbot, crisis simulations)

What usually blocks applicants

  • The year's challenges do not match your product

Deadline and timing

2026 round closed 4 Jun 2026; the next round starts in spring 2027.

Frequently asked

How much does Smart City Challenge Leipzig pay?

Pilot contract with the city of up to EUR 25,000, plus up to EUR 10,000 if the solution is released as open source

Who can apply for Smart City Challenge Leipzig?

Start-ups, founders, companies and students Each round solves specific city problems (2026: AI checks of grant reports, a council chatbot, crisis simulations)

When is the Smart City Challenge Leipzig deadline?

2026 round closed 4 Jun 2026; the next round starts in spring 2027.

Where do I apply for Smart City Challenge Leipzig?

On the official page: https://smart-city-challenge-leipzig.de/. Applications are accepted in DE, EN.

Do I have to pay back Smart City Challenge Leipzig or give up equity?

No, it does not have to be paid back. It takes no equity.

Can solo founders apply for Smart City Challenge Leipzig?

Yes, solo founders can apply.

Sources and verification

Checked on 9 October 2026. Most facts read from the official source; some details need confirmation. This page is orientation, not an eligibility decision.

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