The initiative recognises business ideas from across Portugal that transform scientific and technological knowledge into innovative projects, promoting the creation of spin-offs and start-ups and highlighting solutions with potential economic, social or environmental impact.

The competition covers areas such as Natural Resources and Bioeconomy, Materials and Production Technologies, Digital Technologies and Space, Energy and Climate, Health and Well-being, and Culture, Creativity and Tourism.

The 15th edition is part of the activities organised by the INOVC+ consortium under the project Innovation Ecosystem for Knowledge and Technology Transfer in the Central Region of Portugal, co-funded by the CENTRO 2030 programme through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The INOVC+ project aims to consolidate the regional innovation ecosystem, promoting the valorisation and transfer of knowledge and research results to the economy.

ARRISCA C is aimed at teaching staff, researchers, non-teaching staff, grant holders, students and former students of higher education institutions in Portugal, as well as secondary and vocational education students. Applications may include innovative business ideas at the concept or development stage, with or without a business plan.

The evaluation process includes a semi-final, with a jury composed of representatives from INOVC+ partner organisations, and a final, assessed by a restricted panel of individuals with recognised expertise in investment and innovation.

Following the closing of applications, projects will be evaluated between 28 December 2026 and 15 January 2027. The semi-finalists are expected to be announced on 22 January, followed by the semi-final on 3 February and the announcement of the finalists on 8 February. The final session and closing ceremony will take place on 24 February 2027.

Applications for the 15th edition of ARRISCA C are open until 18 December 2026. To consult the competition rules and submit an application, visit the official ARRISCA C website.