SHARK ISLAND Vienna 2026
From Dubai to Vienna - Shark Island arrives.
After successful Shark Island editions in Dubai, San Francisco, Zug, London, etc. the most dynamic pitch format is coming to Vienna - as part of ViennaUP 2026 in partnerhship with GITEX.
Shark Island is where startups, investors and the local business community meet in a high-energy, interactive format that goes beyond traditional pitching.
Participate as: Investor, Founder, Local Business Expert and Media.
Limited Capacity - approval required!
⚡ The Concept
10-12 selected startups compete for a fully sponsored expansion package to GITEX Global in Dubai (Dec 7–11, 2026) and access package to GITEX AI Serbia 2027, including:
Flights
Hotel & accommodation
Booth and access program
And additional on-ground support
🪙 The Pitch Format
This is not a passive audience. Everyone participates.
Each guest receives 3 Gold Coins
Each startup is assigned a Golden Pineapple
You have 60 minutes to explore, connect and evaluate
→ Startups must collect as many coins as possible (Elevator Pitch Mania)
The Top 3 startups (most collected coins) advance to the final stage:
3-minute pitch each
Followed by jury feedback
The Jury finally decides who wins!
😎 Jury & Guest Speakers
While the jury deliberates, a short fireside chat will keep the energy high - featuring selected members of our renowned jury of international investors, founders and industry leaders.
Together, they will share insights on:
Expansion into the Middle East
Current market entry strategies
Real challenges founders face today
A unique opportunity to gain unfiltered perspectives from those actively shaping global growth leading the final announcement of the winners!
🌍 More than a Pitch Event
Previous Events
🎥 Dubai 2025 - see video
🎥 Dubai 2024 - see video
Shark Island is as much about:
Networking with like-minded founders, investors and the brightest business minds
Opening doors to new markets
Closing deals and building partnerships
🍸 Experience
A curated setting at Badeschiff Wien, combining:
High-quality conversations
Food & drinks included
A selected audience of startups, investors and ecosystem players
📸 Privacy & Media
By attending the event, you agree that photos and videos may be taken and used for promotional and media purposes across Shark Island and partner channels.
We respect your privacy - if you prefer not to appear in media, please inform the team on-site.
Shark Island - where signal becomes opportunity.