The ETH Entrepreneur Club has officially launched its call for the 2026 InCube Challenge, a high-stakes innovation marathon that asks participants to literally “think inside the box”.
From October 26 to 30, selected teams will live and work inside transparent glass cubes situated in public spaces to solve pressing global issues.
This immersive journey begins long before the cube, starting with a “PrepCube” virtual kickoff and an “OutCube” retreat in the Swiss Alps to foster team cohesion.
The experience culminates in five days of intense collaboration where brilliant minds from around the world tackle real-world problems provided by top-tier corporate partners.
Funding and benefits
Participants gain direct access to industry experts and C-level executives while honing essential skills in entrepreneurship and design thinking.
The program is designed to push innovators out of their comfort zones, providing a platform where bold ideas are transformed into functional prototypes through mentorship and rapid prototyping.
The challenge ends with a grand finale, where teams pitch their solutions to a panel of judges and a live audience of 500 students.
Successful teams have the opportunity to win prizes and see their impactful solutions potentially implemented by global companies like Siemens, ABB, or Roche.
Application requirements and eligibility
Organizers are searching for passionate, creative individuals and dedicated problem-solvers ready to collaborate in a high-pressure environment.
While the challenge draws “bright minds” from various backgrounds, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to innovation and a willingness to work intensely within a diverse, international team.
The selection process is rigorous, beginning with an initial application followed by a series of group and individual interviews conducted throughout June and July.
Final decisions will be announced in August, selecting the final group of “cubees” who will represent the 2026 cohort.
Deadline
Prospective applicants must submit their materials through the official InCube portal between May 1 and May 31, 2026.
Missing this window means waiting another year to participate in what alumni describe as an “immensely exhilarating” and cherishing experience.
As the global energy transition and digital building efficiency remain key themes for sponsors, the 2026 challenge promises to be the most impactful yet.
For those ready to turn their ideas into reality, the countdown to the glass cube has begun.
To apply, visit The ETH Entrepreneur Club call page. Visit our global opportunity page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
