Age Innovation Prize 2026: Submit Your Innovation Now
The Age Innovation Prize 2026 has officially started. Organised by the IAF Institute for Ageing Research at the OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, the nationwide competition is entering its fourth edition. The prize supports ideas, projects, initiatives, start‑ups and products that create tangible benefits for older adults in Switzerland.
New in 2026: Two categories, two winning teams
For the first time, the Age Innovation Prize will award:
- one technological innovation (AgeTech)
- one social innovation
This expansion reflects the growing importance of social and societal solutions alongside technological developments in addressing the challenges of demographic change.
What kinds of innovations are eligible?
Eligible submissions include both social and technological innovations with a clear benefit for older people.
Social innovations may include:
- new housing or neighbourhood models
- innovative support and relief services
- projects promoting participation, engagement or mutual support
Technological innovations (AgeTech) may include:
- digital applications and platforms
- assistive, sensor‑based or monitoring systems
- data‑driven products or services supporting autonomy and quality of life
Both early‑stage concepts and advanced projects are welcome. Market readiness is not required; innovation, impact potential and relevance are key.
Jury and Selection
The submitted projects will be evaluated by an interdisciplinary jury composed of experts from industry, innovation, as well as social and public institutions. The jury assesses the projects based on relevance and impact, innovativeness and uniqueness, feasibility and sustainability, as well as user-centered / participatory design.
The shortlisted projects will be invited to present their innovations to the jury in Zurich on 2 September 2026.
Prizes, visibility and networking
Each winning team receives:
- a consultancy voucher from Margerite GmbH worth CHF 3,500,
- a collaboration voucher from the IAF Institute for Ageing Research worth CHF 4,000,
- a professionally produced video showcasing the innovation.
Winning and shortlisted projects also benefit from pitch coaching by the City of Zurich and visibility at the Swiss AgeTech Conference in Zurich.
Submission details
- Submission period: 13 April – 14 June 2026
- Submission: online
- Participation: free of charge
More information and submission details are available here: