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Your idea deserves a stage. BAKE just built one.

Applications open August 2026. Here’s everything you need to apply with confidence.

Join the 2026 listProgramme brochure
No feeFree to apply
1Application per venture
Aug 2026Applications open
100+Applications expected
Why apply

Structure, feedback and access, in one programme.

Because the gap between a good idea and a fundable business is usually just structure, feedback and access, and BakeNext, backed by BAKE’s 12,000+ member network, provides all three.

Opens August 2026

The application form goes live when the window opens. Until then, contact the programme team to be notified the day it does.

Eligibility

Who can apply.

  • Early-stage and growth-stage startups in food, bakery and adjacent technology categories
  • Bakery entrepreneurs, food processing innovators, FoodTech founders, packaging innovators
  • AgriTech and food sustainability startups
  • Students and researchers with a viable business concept
  • One application per venture
Documents required

What to have ready before you start.

  • Pitch deck in PDF format
  • Founder or team profile / resume summary
  • Business registration documents, if applicable, not mandatory for idea-stage applicants
  • Product images, demo video or prototype visuals, if available
Pick one category

Twelve categories. Choose the closest fit.

Bakery TechnologyFood ManufacturingFood ProcessingPackaging InnovationSmart Kitchen SolutionsSustainable Food SystemsAgri-Food TechnologySupply Chain InnovationRetail & Commerce TechnologyAI in Food IndustryConsumer Food ProductsEmerging Food Concepts
Selection process

Seven steps from submission to the stage.

  1. Submit your application online
  2. BAKE’s screening panel reviews all submissions
  3. Shortlisted founders advance to Online Pitch Round 1
  4. Strongest performers advance to Online Pitch Round 2
  5. Top 10 finalists announced and enter the mentorship sprint
  6. Live Grand Finale on 10 October 2026, Day 02 of Bake Expo
  7. Top 3 winners announced with cash prizes and investor connects
Application FAQs

The four questions founders ask first.

The full list of 34 questions lives on the FAQ page.

Terms

What you agree to by applying.

By applying to BakeNext, applicants agree to the programme’s evaluation process, confidentiality terms, media usage rights for event promotion, and finalist attendance requirements at the live Grand Finale.

Full terms pending

The complete Terms & Conditions document is linked here once published.

Next step

Applications open August 2026. Be ready.

Limited to 100+ applications. Screening begins as soon as applications close.

Talk to our teamRead the FAQ