Build bold ideas with Sting!
At Sting, we empower ambitious founders to turn bold ideas into businesses that change the world. Our ecosystem brings together everything you need to accelerate, scale, and succeed, without holding your hand.
.webp)
What We Offer
Close to 500 alumni companies, hands-on workshops, and Peer-2-Peer support.
.png)
Access to experienced coaches and industry experts who challenge and inspire.
Explore our coaches
Pitch to selected investors and leverage networks including Propel Capital and Turbine Capital.
Our priorities
We help startups across three priority verticals, with tailored support for DeepTech:
.webp)
Full Support, No Handholding
We provide guidance, tools, and connections, but the drive comes from you. At Sting, we help you navigate challenges, sharpen your strategy, and unlock opportunities, while giving you the freedom to build your vision.
How it works
We provide guidance, tools, and connections, but the drive comes from you. At Sting, we help you navigate challenges, sharpen your strategy, and unlock opportunities, while giving you the freedom to build your vision.
We have divided this section into 5 parts:
- Idea -> Validation
- Application: Sting Core or Sting Race
- Selection & Evaluation
- Accepted? Here's what happens next
- Not accepted? Next Steps
.webp)
Step 1
Idea → Validation
Every startup begins with a spark. You might have a concept, a prototype, early customers, or just a strong hypothesis. The first question we ask is simple:
Does this idea have real business potential?
If you’re still testing assumptions, that’s okay! We offer pre-seed opportunities to help you validate your idea before applying to Sting Core or Sting Race:
We look for evidence of:
.svg)
A clear problem worth solving
A defined target audience or market
Early signals of traction or interest
A team that can execute
Pre-seed opportunities
These programs are perfect if you’re in the very early stages and want support to get your business to the point where applying to Sting Core or Sting Race makes sense.
Sting Digital Startup Academy Learn the essentials of starting a digital business with step-by-step guidance, expert workshops, and practical exercises all at your own pace.
Sting Test DriveA hands-on, coach-led 6 week program to explore your product, market, and business model in a risk-free environment, helping you see if your idea is ready for acceleration.
Step 2
Application: Sting Core or Sting Race
When you’re ready to accelerate, you submit an application to one of our programs:
Sting Core Our flagship 6‑18 month program for early‑stage startups with product direction and initial traction. This is where you build structure, strategy, and scalable momentum.
Sting RaceA short, intensive investor‑readiness program designed to sharpen your pitch, investor strategy and business narrative.
Both pathways are about focusing your energy where it matters most and preparing you to build a scalable business.
Step 3
Selection & Evaluation
Applications are reviewed by the Sting team.
We assess based on:
If your application fits our criteria, we’ll invite you to join the next phase.
If not, you’ll receive feedback and suggestions for what to focus on next.
Step 4
Accepted? Here’s What Happens Next
You drive the ambition, we help you accelerate it.
Once accepted, you become part of the Sting community with full access to:
Structured Support
A strategic onboarding to set goals, milestones and success metrics.
A tailored plan to help you grow.
Coaching & Networking
Regular sessions with experienced Sting coaches.
Access to industry experts across markets and technologies.
Workshops & Learning
Practical workshops on product strategy, go‑to‑market, fundraising, brand & growth.
Pitch clinics and investor simulations.
Investor Access
Curated pitching opportunities with selected investors.
Introductions to networks like Propel Capital & Turbine Capital.
Peer Community & Alumni
Collaboration with founders at your stage and beyond.
Nearly 500 alumni companies to learn from and lean on.
Not Accepted? Next Steps
If you’re not selected, we won’t leave you in the dark. You’ll receive:
- Constructive feedback on your application
- Next steps for strengthening your business plan
- Suggestions on when and how to reapply
Many successful founders come back stronger after their first attempt, iteration is part of building.
Have any questions?
Browse through the FAQs to gain insights and clarity on various topics related to our organization.
There are a few ways to invest with Sting startups, either as a shareholder and/or through our events.
We partner with corporations, public sector actors, service providers, and academic institutions. If you’re interested, contact us via our Contact page or email us directly.
