About Startup Weekend
The world's largest community of passionate entrepreneurs learning the basics of founding startups and launching successful ventures.
What is Startup Weekend?
Startup Weekend is a 54-hour event where entrepreneurs, developers, designers, marketers, product managers, and startup enthusiasts come together to share ideas, form teams, build products, and launch startups.
It's not just about the weekend - it's about building a community of like-minded individuals who will continue to work together, teach each other, and celebrate each other's successes for years to come.
"The best way to predict the future is to create it." - Startup Weekend Motto
The Weekend Journey
Friday Evening: Pitch & Team Formation
60-second pitches, voting, and team formation around the best ideas.
Saturday: Build & Validate
Intense development, customer discovery, and business model validation.
Sunday: Present & Launch
5-minute final presentations to judges, awards, and celebration.
Global Impact & Success Stories
Since 2007, Startup Weekend has grown into a global movement with incredible success stories
Cities Reached
Entrepreneurs Trained
Startups Launched
Funding Raised
Notable Success Stories
Zaarly
Founded at Startup Weekend, raised $14.1M in funding
Foodspotting
Started at SW, acquired by OpenTable for $10M
Next Big Sound
SW alumni, acquired by Pandora
Why Participate in Startup Weekend?
Launch Your Idea
Turn your business idea into reality with the help of talented teammates and experienced mentors.
Build Your Network
Connect with entrepreneurs, developers, designers, and potential co-founders in your city.
Learn by Doing
Gain hands-on experience in lean startup methodology, customer development, and rapid prototyping.
Test Your Skills
Challenge yourself in a supportive environment and discover new talents you didn't know you had.
Win Prizes
Compete for cash prizes, incubator opportunities, and mentorship from successful entrepreneurs.
Have Fun
Enjoy an incredible weekend with passionate people who share your enthusiasm for innovation.
Why Brussels?
Brussels is the perfect location for Startup Weekend - a vibrant tech ecosystem, international business hub, and home to innovative entrepreneurs from across Europe.
European Capital
Heart of Europe with access to EU institutions and international networks
Tech Hub
Growing startup ecosystem with major tech companies and innovation centers
Multicultural
Diverse community of international professionals and entrepreneurs
Ready to Join the Movement?
Be part of Startup Weekend Brussels 2026 and turn your ideas into reality alongside passionate entrepreneurs.