People Tech Award 2026
The most promising Startups and AI agents shaping the Future of Work, Global Mobility, and HR Technology
The People Tech Award is the signature Startup competition of the International HR Tech Conference 2026
Recognising the most promising Startups shaping the Future of Work, Global Mobility, and HR Technology. Hosted live in Leipzig, the award brings together top-tier Founders, active Investors and Business Angels to spotlight game-changing People Tech Solutions.
Please note: The Award Show will take place in English.
New in 2026:Inhouse Solutions Competition
Corporate Teams present their innovative AI Agents and showcase what they can do #MissionPossible.
Competition Categories
Innovative Startup Competition
5 selected Startups present their innovative tech solutions in our original competition format.
In-house Solution Contest
Corporate teams present their AI-based In-house Solutions.
Audience Award
Jury Award:
2 Award Categories:
Voting by the conference audience in Leipzig. Your chance to show that your solution resonates with relevant players in the industry beyond the jury - with impact and support in the real world
Selected by a panel of Investors, Business Angels & Industry Experts. This category honors the Startup with the strongest potential in terms of innovation, scalability, and relevance for the Future of Work
For Startups:
You’re building what’s next in how people work, lead, and grow — now it’s time to be seen.
The People Tech Award is your chance to showcase your solution, connect with Decision-Makers, Business Angels & Investors and gain access to the right stage, space, and conversations. Whether you’re rethinking HR, Global Mobility or HR Tech: If your Startup is ready to grow, this is where your next opportunity begins — with the chance to convince both an expert jury and the wider audience through 2 Award Categories: Jury Award & People’s Choice.
Your Benefits:
Free snacks, drinks & hospitality
Network at exclusive Aftershow Event
Media exposure & curated networking
Exposure onsite and in our PMA Community
Get in front of expert jury & investors
Full access to Leipzig conference
1 extra team ticket included
Pitch live to HR & Mobility leaders
We welcome applications from Startups that meet at least 2 of the 3 criteria:
● Operate in HR, People Mobility, Workforce Innovation or related fields● Were founded in or after 2021● Offer a tech-driven, scalable solution relevant to global HR challenges
Who can participate?
The People Tech Award is open to Startups that are changing the way we work, move, and grow. Whether you build tools for smarter Talent Management, Global Workforce Mobility, HR Automation or Employee Experience — we want to hear from you.
Who else?
We also welcome all Startups that meet one of the following requirements: You are based in Eastern Germany or your solution creates a public value.
How to take part
Step 4
Step 3
Step 2
Step 1
Pitch live on stage - Each finalist will have a maximum of 3 minutes to pitch – short, sharp and to the point.
Book your ticket - the ticket link will be shared with all applicants separately.
Get to know our team (30 min talk, online)
Apply online by filling out the application form and uploading your pitch deck with all required information (please see Pitch Deck Guideline)
A selection committee will review all applications. Finalists will be notified in early October.
Please note: The entire award process – including the pitch, communication and materials – will take place in English.
People Tech Award Winners
Our Jurors
For Investors & Business Angels:
You’re looking for what's next in People Tech, Global Mobility, and HR Innovation — we’ll introduce you to the founders building it.
The People Tech Award connects Investors and Business Angels with promising Startups that rethink how organisations attract, grow, and move talent globally. You’ll gain direct access to promising ventures, future-facing ideas, and a handpicked international founder network.Whether you’re actively scouting or want to stay close to the pulse of HR & People Tech Innovation — this is the room you’ll want to be in.
Your Benefits:
Join main stage & award ceremony
Connect with founders at exclusive events
Get pre-conference updates & profiles
Gain visibility as innovation supporter
Join official People Tech Award Jury
Network with investors & ecosystem leaders
Spot rising solutions early
Early access to top HR & Mobility Startups
Who’s in the room?
Drinks, good conversation, and real connections — nothing more, nothing less.
At the conference venue – no location change needed
23.11.2026
● All Jury Members● Business Angels, Investors & Eco-System Leaders
Meet Our Team:
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Media Presskit
Our Media Press Kit offers easy access to event details, press releases, images, logos, and other resources to support coverage and promotion of the conference.
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