Zurich has opened submissions for its fifth international start-up program.  

The Zurich Innovation Championship challenges start-ups worldwide to provide solutions to challenges affecting insurance in four categories: commercial insurance; digital simplification; life and health; and retail property and casualty. 

The competition begins with Zurich global business experts selecting start-ups to pitch ideas to a jury of industry experts and leaders. 

Qualifying participants will then present to their country’s executive team. 

Chosen start-ups will be sent to Zurich’s executive leadership team, who will award 10 winners up to $US100,000 ($153,325) and access to experts to help deliver their projects. The participants will present their solutions at Zurich’s Innovation Demo Day in September. 

Last year’s competition prompted more than 3500 submissions, with 12 winners from North America, South America and Europe.   

“Building on the success of the first four editions, which have led to more than 50 ongoing collaborations, our program continues to evolve and grow its impact,” Zurich Group Chief Strategy Officer Paolo Mantero said. “This makes me even more excited for this year’s edition and the initiatives we will see.” 

Applications close on February 15 (AEDT). Click here to apply.