The Pegasus Ventures Startup World Cup (SWC) Portland Regional will take place on May 13, marking the inaugural event that brings a world-class global pitching competition to Oregon. As part of a coordinated effort with Upstart Collective’s Portland Startup Week, Business Oregon’s Oregon Innovation Showcase, Greater Portland Inc. (GPI), Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN), and other ecosystem partners, this event anchors one of the largest innovation gatherings in the Pacific Northwest from May 11–16.

This year, the competition has attracted 100+ applications, and 10 high-potential startups have been selected to pitch live. Each finalist will present a 4-minute pitch followed by 2 minutes of Q&A before a distinguished panel of investors and ecosystem leaders. The winning company will advance to the global Startup World Cup Grand Finale, connecting Oregon’s top startups to the international venture stage and marching for the $1,000,000 SWC Global Winner Prize.

Bringing SWC to Portland is a deliberate effort to elevate Oregon’s position in the global innovation ecosystem. By convening high-growth startups, institutional investors, corporate leaders, and policymakers in one platform, the event is designed to showcase the depth of Oregon’s entrepreneurial talent while attracting national and international capital and attention. Confirmed participation from leaders in Oregon state government and economic development agencies further reflects the state’s commitment to fostering innovation, transparency, and long-term economic growth.

In collaboration with Greater Portland Inc.’s International Founders Mixer at the same venue, the event will also create a unique bridge between local and global founders, reinforcing Portland’s role as an emerging hub for cross-border innovation and investment.

Register HERE