Switzerland's most selective accelerator for digital trust startups. Pre-seed to Series A.
Turning expertise into tangible ROI for entrepreneurs.
Program partners
Tell us what you need. We put the full ecosystem behind your success.
IMPACT
185 startups accelerated since 2019, across 7 editions. Over CHF 450M raised by our Tech4Trust alumni.
Alumni like Saporo went from an idea to $2.7M raised, 7 clients and 12 employees after the program.
MARKET
Each cohort works through selective peer-to-peer sessions with corporate leadership to sharpen product-market fit, with direct access to Trust Valley’s ecosystem of 400+ partners: VCs, CVCs, business angels, corporates, academics and public institutions.
CREDIBILITY
Selected by a 52-member Advisory Board of industry leaders, investors and public sector executives, who shape the program and mentor each cohort.
Backed by EPFL Innovation Park and the Canton de Vaud since 2019. 28 to 32 startups chosen per edition, from applicants worldwide.
Equity-free. No program fees. Travel costs apply only for roadshows.
Who Can Apply?
We welcome International startups that are developing innovative solutions to foster trust in society and the digital economy meeting the following criteria is welcome to apply:
- Incorporated for less than 7 years
- Ready-to-market product or solution.
- In a customer acquisition phase.
- Active in the program’s focused expertise and fields.
- Team committed to participate in the program.
Expertise
Access Control, AI, Anonymized Data Management, Anti-counterfeiting, Authentication, Biometrics, Blockchain, Cloud Security, Critical Infrastructure, Cryptography, Cybersecurity, Data Privacy, Digital Governance, Edge Cloud, Forensics, GDPR, Identification, GovTech, Industrial IoT, Metaverse, Neurotechnology, PeaceTech, Privacy-enhancing Technologies, Quantum security, Robotics, SCADA, Threat Intelligence, Traceability, Trust Tech, web3
Fields
Agritech-food, Democracy & Humanitarian, GovTech & Digital Diplomacy, Education, Finance & Insurance, GreenTech, Health, ICT, Industry, Mobility, Smart Cities, Space
Program Elements
A 9-month Journey
A 9-month program, from Trust Valley Days on September 23-24, 2026 to Demo Day on June 10, 2027. Startups move through online sessions, in-person roadshows and direct corporate contact, building toward one goal: signed deals.
Corporate Mentoring & Workshops
Sessions with corporate leadership and Advisory Board members, structured to convert into POCs and commercial introductions.
Roadshows
Direct contact with investors and corporates in each hub, whether in Zurich, Lausanne, Geneva, Singapore, UK, France, San Francisco, and so on. Every stop is built around introductions, not just visibility.
Awards & Closing Ceremony
Trust Valley Demo Day, the closing stage in front of investors and innovation leaders. Compete for over CHF 150,000 in cash and in-kind prizes, strategic partnerships, POCs and direct investor matchmaking.
Alumni Network
A network actively curated by Trust Valley, connecting alumni across seasons through introductions, deal flow and peer support long after the program ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tech4Trust?
Tech4Trust is Switzerland’s leading accelerator for pre-seed to Series A startups in digital trust, cybersecurity, and adjacent fields like AI, blockchain and critical infrastructure protection.
Selected founders get direct access to corporate leadership, investors and a 400+ partner ecosystem, built to convert expertise into signed deals and secured capital.
Who can apply?
We welcome Swiss and international startups working on technologies that enhance trust, security, and resilience in the digital economy. Typical applicants are early-stage to growth-stage companies (Pre-Seed to Series A) with an MVP or market traction, but innovative pre-revenue projects may also be considered.
Which sectors or fields does Tech4Trust focus on?
Tech4Trust welcomes startups across a wide range of sectors where digital trust is essential.
This includes fields like ICT & Digital Services, Health & Life Sciences, Finance & Insurance, Smart Cities, Industrial Tech, Mobility, Space, GovTech and more. Whether you’re improving cybersecurity in hospitals or building secure infrastructure for smart cities, your solution may be a strong fit.
What does the program offer?
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An hybrid program combining online and in-person sessions
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Tailored mentoring and coaching
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Business development support and investor introductions
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High-visibility events and media exposure
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Access to a network of over +400 partners including corporates, public institutions, academic experts, SMEs and startups.
How many startups are selected?
Does my startup need to be incorporated in Switzerland?
What are the key dates?
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Applications open: June 2026.
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Deadline to apply: July 31, 2026.
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Program start for Startups: The official of the programm will be on September 23-24, 2026 during the Trust Valley Days annual event.
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Opening Ceremony: September 24, 2026.
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Program end: The program will end with the Award Ceremony and Demo Day on June 10, 2026.
What is the selection process?
How much does it cost?
How can I apply?
Still have questions?
Trusted by +185 Startup Founders Worldwide
From AI to cybersecurity, Tech4Trust alumni are shaping tomorrow’s most trusted tech.
Testimonials
“The program is an unique opportunity to meet high-motivated innovators and experienced folks with a security mindset. It provides a platform for visibility at the national level. It couldn’t be better than that.”
Laurent Balmelli
“The Tech4Trust community has enabled us to forge successful strategic partnerships such as the one with Microsoft Azure (…). We are feeling very proud and grateful for our time and experience with Tech4Trust.”
Franck Tiambo
“The Tech4Trust program enabled us to connect with an amazing local network of experts and, along with other startups, present an incredibly diverse offering.”
Harry Halpin
“The Tech4Trust program has been an incredible springboard for our startup specialized in the field of data encryption (…). The support from Trust Valley has been a great help to start our developments.”
Nagib Aouini
“Thank you 1000x for the excellent program and dynamism of the team. Great atmosphere with fellow startups and great visibility”
Marc Siegrist
“One of the best programs, very well structured, for startups of all stages.”
Mujadad Naeem
“Good feeling to be surrounded by startup facing the same challenges.”
François Gigante
"When we started the program, we only had an idea - no fundraising, hardly any network. After the program, we raised $2.7 million, we secured 7 clients and 12 employees. Tech4Trust acted as a badge of trust that propelled us and encouraged investors to talk to us."
Olivier Eyries
Founders Interviews
Our trusted advisory board
A community of 52 industry leaders, investors and public sector executives. They shape the program, select each cohort, and award CHF 150,000 in partner prizes.
Guillaume Pahud
Global Head of Digital Hub, SGS
Bolko Hohaus
Vice President Director Investors Romandie - SICTIC
Lajla Aganovic
Head of Venture Engagement, Logitech
Jean-Christophe Makuch
Head of Digital Technologies, SICPA
Contact us
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Whether you’re still exploring or already convinced, we’re here to support your growth journey.