The Backers Pitch

Where Investors Pitch the Startups They Believe In.

A New Way to Pitch

The Backers Pitch flips the traditional startup competition on its head.

Instead of founders pitching investors, investors pitch the startups they've already backed, sharing why they invested and why others should too.

Through five specialised Labs, founders gain practical frameworks, market insights, investor perspectives, peer learning, and actionable strategies designed to support every stage of the startup journey.

How It Works

  • 20 Startups Selected: Chosen from exhibiting startups at Expand North Star 2026.
  • 4-Minute Investor Pitch: Your existing investor presents your company live on stage.
  • Live Investor Interest: The audience votes to enter your Dealroom for follow-up discussions.
  • Curated Dealroom Meetings: Interested investors meet directly with founders inside the Exclusive Investor Lounge.

Eligibility

  • Exhibiting at Expand North Star 2026
  • Have an existing investor willing to pitch on stage
  • Complete the online application before the deadline

Selection Criteria

  • Market Opportunity
  • Product & Differentiation
  • Traction
  • Team
  • Business Model

Key Dates

1 September 2026

Final Application Deadline

1 November 2026

Selected Backers Announced

9 December 2026

The Backers Pitch Live

BOOK A POD TO APPLY

Step 1

Submit your application through the Expand North Star E-Zone.

Step 2

Applications are reviewed by the Expand North Star selection committee.

Step 3

Shortlisted startups confirm their existing investor who will pitch on stage.

Step 4

The final 20 startups and Backers are announced.

FAQs

A live showcase where investors pitch their portfolio companies to other investors.

Any startup exhibiting at Expand North Star 2026 with an existing investor.

Yes. The investor must already be part of the startup's cap table.

Twenty startups.

No. The objective is investor exposure, strategic introductions, and follow-on fundraising opportunities.

Investors who express interest are invited to curated Dealroom meetings with the startup founders.