Falling Walls Lab New York
The Falling Walls Lab is coming to New York City. Hosted by NYU in collaboration with ASRC CAT, the pitch competition invites students, postdocs, and early-career professionals to present breakthrough ideas with the potential to address challenges in science, technology, business, and society.
Participants will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas, connect with researchers and innovators from across New York City and beyond, and gain access to coaching, workshops, and networking opportunities. The winner of the New York Lab will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Berlin to attend the Falling Walls Science Summit and compete in the international Emerging Talents category.
About Falling Walls Lab
Since 2009, Falling Walls has brought together leading minds from around the world to explore ideas that break down barriers in science and society. Falling Walls Labs are pitch competitions held in more than 60 countries to identify and support early-career researchers and innovators with breakthrough ideas.
Participants are invited to answer the question: Which wall will your idea break down?
Past Falling Walls Lab participants have presented ideas ranging from new tools for medicine development and biological approaches to plastic waste disposal to innovative ways of making climate data more engaging and accessible.
Who can apply?
Applicants must be 18 years or older at the time of submission and must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Currently enrolled at a university as a student
- Awarded a Bachelor’s degree no more than 10 years ago
- Awarded a Master’s degree no more than 7 years ago
- Awarded a PhD no more than 5 years ago
Please note that presenting at a Falling Walls Lab is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Applicants must not have previously participated in a Falling Walls Lab.
Why apply?
Falling Walls Lab New York offers participants the opportunity to:
- Present a breakthrough idea to an expert jury
- Gain valuable pitch experience
- Connect with scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators
- Access coaching, workshops, and networking opportunities
- Engage with Germany’s vibrant innovation ecosystem, including research institutions, industry leaders, investors, and R&D partners
- Compete for the chance to attend the Falling Walls Science Summit in Berlin
Application deadline: July 5, 2026
New York City pitch competition: September 14, 2026
Falling Walls Science Summit Berlin: November 6–9, 2026
Apply Here: Falling Walls Lab New York, United States | Falling Walls
For more details, visit the Falling Walls FAQ. Still have questions? Email ayr2044@nyu.edu.
DWIH New York is pleased to share this opportunity with its network.