Start-up Showcase

Take Your Place in MARUF Showcases!

MARUF’s open call for Showcases, which enable the sharing of a large number of experiences, knowledge and ideas in a limited time in the search for urban solutions to urban challenges.

Application Deadline: August 10, 2025 (until 23:59 (UTC+3))

What are MARUF Showcases?

Showcases are spaces of interaction that aim for different stakeholders to come together to share knowledge and experiences, learn from each other and develop solution-oriented collaborations. Shaped by application and evaluation processes, showcases encourage the exchange of knowledge and experience and contribute to the dissemination of solutions by bringing together participants from different sectors. Speakers deliver short presentations, where staying concise can be a challenge.

At MARUF25, you can choose one of four different showcases:

• The PhD Showcase provides a platform for sharing ongoing doctoral research in related fields.
• The Good Practice Showcase demonstrates successful municipal practices that address urban challenges.
• The Project Showcase features projects offering urban solutions through international cooperation.
• The Start-up Showcase presents innovative ventures focused on urban solutions.

and beyond. Take your place in this collective sharing area and join our inquiries for possible urban futures!

Evaluation and Presentation Process

Applications are evaluated in terms of their compatibility with the aforementioned showcase concepts, their relevance with conceptual framework and streams of MARUF25, and their compliance with MARUF Code of Conduct. Following the evaluation process, MARUF25 Team will contact applicants who are eligible to take part in the showcases.

The MARUF25 expects speakers to captivate the audience with a short but effective presentation in the time allocated. Technical support will be provided during the presentations, while other expenses are covered by the applicants.

Within the scope of MARUF25 Showcases, projects, ideas, and studies can be shared with a wider audience, opening up opportunities for new collaborations and the development of promising professional networks.

What is the Start-up Showcase?

The Start-up Showcase is a dynamic platform where entrepreneurs presenting innovative solutions for various aspects of urban life share their start-ups with MARUF25 participants through 5-minute presentations. This event aims to bring together bold thinkers and solution-oriented entrepreneurs with stakeholders, fostering the exchange of ideas and the formation of potential collaborations for more livable, resilient, and sustainable cities.

Why Apply for the Start-Up Showcase?

The Start-up Showcase offers an opportunity to present innovative and creative initiatives at both national and international levels. Participants have the chance to meet local government representatives, field experts, and potential investors. Taking part in this event creates the possibility to turn ideas into practice and contribute to shaping the future of cities.

What are the Application and Evaluation Criteria?

• The start-up must provide innovative solutions for urban life. It must also applicable by or inspiring for local governments.
• The entrepreneur must have completed the development process for the product or service it provides.
• Entrepreneurs will present their presentations to MARUF25 participants in a maximum time of 5 minutes.

For any inquiries, please contact: [email protected]

Application Process Completed.