Cybersecurity start-ups from the DACH region can apply for the ATHENE Startup Award UP26@it-sa between 1 and 30 June 2026. The winning teams will receive prize money, networking opportunities with key players in the German cybersecurity market, and high visibility at Europe’s leading security trade fair.
The application period for the ATHENE Startup Award UP26@it-sa opens on 1 June: young companies from Germany, Austria and Switzerland that develop innovative solutions for IT security and data protection and have been in existence for no more than five years now have until 30 June to apply for one of the industry’s most prestigious awards. The winners stand to receive prize money totalling €15,000 and the chance to make valuable industry contacts.
Who are the best cybersecurity start-ups in the DACH region?
An independent panel of experts from the worlds of research, industry and trade associations will review all applications and select five finalist teams. These teams will present themselves to the public at the it-sa Digital Preview Day and then take to the main exhibition stage in Nuremberg for the final pitch event on 28 October 2026. All five finalists will also benefit from a one-year free listing on the it-sa 365 digital platform.
“Through the ATHENE Startup Award, we not only gain attention but also the trust of customers and investors,” says Christian Stanke, co-founder of Infrafon, last year’s winner.
All start-ups focusing on cyber security or data protection that have their main/founding location in the DACH region and are no more than five years old are eligible to apply
