Spotlighting the breakthrough technologies shaping tomorrow
A global contest by ASML for entrepreneurs developing breakthrough technologies that advance the capabilities, performance and scalability of next-generation high-tech and complex systems.
- Sector
- High-tech & complex systems
- TRL
- TRL 4 to 6
- Deadline
- Closed
About the award
The ASML Emerging Innovator Award is a new global contest for visionary entrepreneurs developing breakthrough technologies that advance the capabilities, performance and scalability of next-generation high-tech and complex systems. ASML is looking for bold risk-takers ready to move beyond the theoretical and build the hardware and systems that will define the future.
The award acts as a collaboration engine, connecting ASML’s world-class ecosystem with the next generation of talent. By providing recipients with mentoring, network access and global visibility, ASML is building the capacity for these innovations to reach the market and solve the world’s most complex technical challenges.
Is your startup building breakthrough high-complexity technology?
The award recognises breakthrough deep tech innovations in two areas.
Advanced manufacturing excellence
New methods, materials or processes that push manufacturing boundaries, such as additive manufacturing, robotics and automation, or production-enabling materials.
Next frontier in tech
Technologies rooted in fundamental research, such as next-gen energy moonshots, quantum or photonic computing, novel physics and chemistry platforms, or hardware for space and deep sea.
Who could apply?
Startups developing high-complexity technologies at TRL 4 to 6, across all fields.
Application
The application form, a slide deck (max. 15 slides) and a 2–3 minute video (max. 400 MB) or technical documentation with images or diagrams showing proof of concept.
Final Deliverable
Finalists present their technology on stage at the Hello Tomorrow Summit in Amsterdam on 11–12 June 2026.
Startups worldwide
The award was open to startups from all countries.
TRL 4 to 6
Preference for lower TRL with bolder ideas over higher TRL with incremental innovation.
Two focus areas
Pioneering advanced manufacturing excellence or building the next frontier in tech.
What will you win?
Recognition, expert access and a stage at the Hello Tomorrow Summit.
Global visibility and recognition
The title of ASML Emerging Innovator Award Winner 2026, and a global spotlight on ASML’s LinkedIn channel.
Exclusive expert access
15 hours of tailored coaching from ASML specialists, on-site or online, with up to €4,000 in financial support for travel and accommodation to join on-site at ASML.
Hello Tomorrow Summit ticket
Pitch on stage at the award finals and build your network at the Hello Tomorrow Summit in Amsterdam.
Key dates
From the Ask Me Anything session to the finals at the Hello Tomorrow Summit.
Applications open
Applications for the ASML Emerging Innovator Award 2026 are officially open.
Ask Me Anything webinar
A live session at 16:00 CET to answer all questions about the award.
Applications closed
Applications will be evaluated by a team of experts from Hello Tomorrow and ASML.
Finalists announced
Out of 300 applicants, 5 teams were selected to attend the finals.
Finals at the Hello Tomorrow Summit
Finalists present their technology on stage in Amsterdam.
ASML Day
The winning team receives 15 hours of tailored, on-site coaching from ASML specialists.
Why partner with ASML?
ASML
ASML is a global leader in advanced semiconductor systems, enabling the world’s most complex technologies through precision engineering, manufacturing excellence and deep ecosystem collaboration.
Hello Tomorrow Consulting
Hello Tomorrow Consulting connects corporates and public institutions with innovative deep tech startups through tailored scouting programmes. We help organisations discover emerging technologies and connect directly with the startups shaping the future.
Your questions about the award
Who could apply?
Startups worldwide developing high-complexity technologies at TRL 4 to 6, across all fields. Lower TRL with bolder ideas was preferred over higher TRL with incremental innovation.
What did applicants need to submit?
The application form, a slide deck (max. 15 slides) and a 2–3 minute video (max. 400 MB) or technical documentation showing proof of concept.
What did the winner receive?
The title of ASML Emerging Innovator Award Winner 2026, a spotlight on ASML’s LinkedIn channel, 15 hours of coaching from ASML specialists and a pitch at the Hello Tomorrow Summit.
Was travel covered?
Up to €4,000 in financial support covered travel and accommodation to join the coaching on-site at ASML.
Who can I contact for more information?
Our Project Coordinator, Eduardo Rodrigues (eduardo.rodrigues@hello-tomorrow.org).
Explore past calls
See the open innovation calls we have run with corporations and public partners.
Deep Scale Climate Tech Accelerator
A climate tech acceleration programme bridging Latin America with global deep tech ecosystems, with lab access in Chile and international expansion support.
L'Oréal GSI Startup Call 2026
L'Oréal's Green Sciences Incubator and Genopole looked for alternative carbon sources and sustainable ingredients for cosmetics.
ESA Φ-lab Grand Marathon 2025
AI-enabled Earth Observation concepts to protect civilians in conflict and disaster zones. Up to €215K in cumulative prizes.
Spartners Incubator Startup Call
Human health and biotech startups invited to join the Spartners incubator by Servier and BioLabs in Paris-Saclay, with labs and expert support.
Applications are closed
The 2026 award spotlighted startups building breakthrough hardware and complex systems. Discover our open calls or contact us to hear about the next ones.