Contest

The springboard for entrepreneurs

The competition that celebrates freelancers and small businesses in Luxembourg. An inspiring evening, networking opportunities, visibility…and three awards to honor those driving local entrepreneurship forward. The 2026 call for applications is not yet open. Stay tuned!

Supporting
small businesses

The EIS Competition rewards three entrepreneurs whose project, impact, and energy are moving the lines.
While priority is given to members of the EIS Collective, the competition is open to all eligible non-member entrepreneurs. It spotlights local initiatives, rewards boldness, and gives a real boost to young businesses under five years old.

Networking with the EIS community
Visibility via our social media campaign
A spotlight moment on stage at our annual event
Three prizes of €2,000 each + exclusive perks

FAQ

What’s in it for you?

An inclusive competition that rewards local entrepreneurs—especially members of the EIS Collective—and shines a light on small businesses and underrepresented groups in entrepreneurship.
Our mission: to recognize boldness, local impact, and creativity among freelancers and small businesses in Luxembourg.

How it works?

Application period.
Pre-selection by the EIS team
Final vote: public + jury
Annual awards ceremony
Post-competition support for winners

How to apply?

Simply fill out the online application form.
Participation is free and open to all, with priority given to members of the EIS Collective.

The inaugural EIS Competition will take place in 2026.
All details about the application period will be announced on our website throughout the year.

Stay tuned!

Who can apply?

The competition is open to local entrepreneurs who:

are self-employed (sole proprietors) or company directors,
run a for-profit business,
hold a valid business permit.

The activity may be conducted as a sole proprietorship or a commercial company (Sàrl, Sàrl-s, SA, cooperative, etc.), including those with SIS approval. Non-profits (asbl) and foundations are not eligible.

Any activity covered by Luxembourg’s business establishment law qualifies, including:
crafts, trade, and commercial services (e.g., hospitality, real estate, tech/SaaS, web services, wellness, and more),
Liberal and creative professions regulated under this law.

The business must

be legally established in Luxembourg for between 6 months and 5 years maximum,
involve at least 1 person (salaried or self-employed) and up to 50 people,
not be in bankruptcy proceedings or judicial restructuring.

What are the steps?

Application submission
Eligibility check
Pre-selection: 6 finalists (2 per category)
Final vote: public + jury
Winners announced (1 per category) and awards ceremony at the annual EIS event

What are the jury's criteria?

Impact on the Luxembourg territory
Growth potential
Originality of products or services
Clarity of the business model
Energy and commitment of the leader

Who makes up the jury?

Experts and mentors from the EIS Collective
Competition’s sponsors

What are the prize categories?

Best committed independent talent (including creative professionals)
Best local small business led by a woman (creation or takeover)
Best initiative by a newcomer (expat or international talent settled in Luxembourg)