A warm welcome to all new subscribers!
t’s mid-November — and while the year winds down for some, founders know better: this is when momentum matters most. That final pitch, that one smart application, that deep insight into what actually works… it could be the difference between stalling out and leveling up.
In this issue, we highlight one global competition that could land you €100,000 equity-free — and one founder’s unfiltered reflection after 18 months building on the edge of chaos and clarity.
If you’re still in the game, this is your signal to double down. The year’s not done — and neither are you.
🛠️ Curated with care by Bartosz & Hannah – the team behind Bootstrap Insider.
We research, vet, and deliver only the most founder-friendly opportunities.
🔎In today's newsletter:
🎯 1 Top Startup Competition
Curated every 2 weeks – perfect for bootstrap founders.🚀 Win Cash, Traction or Exposure
Without giving up a single share of equity.💡Did You Know?
News from the startup world.
Finest Pitch-Pick
🏆 Name of the Competition: Hello Tomorrow Global Challenge 2025
🎯 Aim:
The Hello Tomorrow Global Challenge is one of the world’s most prestigious startup competitions for early-stage deep-tech ventures. Designed to spotlight science-based innovation, it connects founders with a global ecosystem of investors, corporates, and thought leaders. Winners pitch live in front of top-tier decision-makers at the Hello Tomorrow Global Summit in Paris.
📍 Organizer: Hello Tomorrow (Paris, France)
🎯 Focus:
The competition is open to deep-tech startups from all sectors — from climate tech and AI to biotech, quantum, space, and materials. Applicants must be working on technologies rooted in scientific research or advanced engineering, and solving real-world challenges.
💸 Prize Fund:
€100,000 equity-free cash prize for the Grand Winner
Finalists receive travel & accommodation support, free tickets to the Global Summit, and 1:1 investor matchmaking
Additional awards for track winners and visibility through global media exposure
✅ Who can apply?
Early-stage startups (up to Series A recommended)
Based on new technology or scientific research
Legally incorporated (any country)
Team size typically under 30 employees
Must be able to attend the finals in Paris in March 2026
📅 Deadline: November 30, 2025
Early-bird applicants by October 31 may receive feedback or pre-screening benefits. Finalists are notified by early 2026.
🎤 Live Pitch:
Finalists pitch live on stage at the Hello Tomorrow Global Summit (Paris, March 2026), in front of 400+ curated investors, corporates, and media. The summit draws over 3,000 attendees from 100+ countries.
📍 Location: Paris, France (Hello Tomorrow Global Summit 2026)
📝 How to apply?
Apply via the Hello Tomorrow website by completing an online application form that includes your pitch deck and technical details.
💡 My Comment:
If you’re building something truly deep-tech — not just an app, but a breakthrough — Hello Tomorrow is the stage to beat. With a €100K equity-free prize, global spotlight, and a chance to network with the sharpest minds in science and venture, this challenge is your gateway to international scale and credibility. Paris in spring isn’t bad either. 🌍✨
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💡Did you know this?
📈Grit and Growth: A Founder’s 18-Month Journey
🤫Seven Lessons from a Seasoned Founder…
🚨Are you now ready to make money, continue to grow with your start-up and look for grants and funding opportunities?
THE BOOTSTRAP INSIDER GROWTH is the solution ⬇️
About The Bootstrap Insider
The Bootstrap Insider is a newsletter that helps startups discover and apply for pitch competitions, ensuring they never miss out on valuable opportunities. It addresses the problem of missed funding and exposure chances due to lack of information. Created by Bartosz Kajdas, an experienced entrepreneur, venture builder and Pitchtrainer, the platform leverages his expertise to provide timely and relevant updates.
Disclaimer:
This newsletter is for informational purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided. We shall not be liable for any damages arising from the use or non-use of the information provided.