The next generation of AI companies is being built now, Dent Spark is where we meet them early.
Following three successful editions, Dent Spark ⚡ returns this fall, bringing together a curated group of AI-native startups, investors, operators, and researchers for our flagship AI pitch competition.
We select a small number of exceptional pre-seed and seed-stage AI startups building across vertical applications, enterprise workflows, developer tools, and invite them to pitch live before leading AI investors. Dent Capital invests directly into the companies we believe in.
🚀 What’s at stake?
📅 Applications now open!
Camila Saruhashi
Partner
Construct Capital
Camila invests in founders transforming the most foundational industries of our economy, from Physical AI to Applied AI. She was previously an operator at EarnIn and Nubank.
Kleida Martiro
Managing Director
Glasswing Ventures
Kleida backs founders building AI-native software in enterprise, platform, and security startups. She brings deep expertise in data science, applied AI, and company building.
Maarten Hooft
Managing Partner
Quest Venture Partners
Maarten invests in science-driven and deep technology companies solving the world's most consequential problems. Prior to Quest, he was an operator at Google's Android team.
Petra Griffith
Managing Director
Wedbush Ventures
Petra invests in problem solvers passionate about meaningfully changing the way we live and do business. Prior to Wedbush, she was an operator across Netflix, Yahoo!, and 24 Hour Fitness.
Deadline: October 12, 2026
Open to U.S.-based AI-first startups at the seed and pre-seed stage. Finalists will be selected on a rolling basis, so applying early gives you the best chance to be considered
Rolling until October 26, 2026
Top 8 finalists will be paired with AI experts and leading industry experts for personalized guidance, idea refinement, and product feedback
October 27, 2026 - Morning PT
Finalists will pitch live, and the top 3 winners will split at least $250,000 in SAFE investments from Dent Capital. Terms will be finalized post-award, we’re open to participating in existing rounds where applicable
Build valuable connections with AI pioneers and venture capitalists, potentially leading to ongoing advisory relationships and future collaboration opportunities
Dent Spark ⚡ AI Pitch Competition - Fall 26: