4YFN27 Awards: startup competition at MWC Barcelona 2027

The 4YFN27 Awards are a global competition for digital startups, run by GSMA 4YFN. 4YFN is the startup event of MWC Barcelona, the large trade show for the mobile industry. The awards take place at 4YFN 2027 in Barcelona from 1 to 4 March 2027.

The winner receives a €20,000 cash prize from GSMA Foundry, a free stand at 4YFN 2028 and a slot on the main 4YFN stage. Each of the five finalists gets €2,500, and each of the Top 20 startups gets €1,500. The Top 20 also receive a free exhibition pod for four days, four passes and a chance to pitch at the semi finals. Cash prizes do not add up across levels.

Startups from any sector can apply if their product is related to digital technologies. The company must be incorporated and founded in September 2019 or later. The product must already be on the market and commercially available. Startups in Cuba, Iran or North Korea cannot apply. The application must be written in English.

You apply through the online form on the 4YFN Awards page. Investor panels judge innovation, traction, growth potential, impact and team fit. There are five categories: Health Tech, Fintech, Climate Tech, Connectivity and Digital Horizons, with four startups chosen in each. The Top 20 must exhibit for all four days and send a senior English speaking representative. Remote pitching is not allowed.

Applications close on 26 October 2026 at 17:00 CET. The Top 20 are contacted between 12 and 18 November 2026. The semi finals are on 1 March 2027 and the final is on 3 March 2027.