The clock is ticking for sports and active nutrition start-ups looking to take part in NutraIngredients’ Start-Up Stars 2027, with applications closing Friday, Nov. 13.
The initiative will see three start-ups selected to showcase their businesses at the Sports & Active Nutrition Summit USA 2027, taking place Feb. 23–25 in Dallas, Texas.
Entries have already come in from across the industry, covering everything from science-backed ingredients and new product formats to technology and solutions targeting active consumers.
And with just days left before the deadline, there is still room for more.
What’s on offer?
The three selected companies will have the chance to present their innovations to attendees at the Sports & Active Nutrition Summit USA, held at the Westin Dallas Park Central.
Alongside a speaking slot, each winner will receive a full delegate pass, branding in the event’s Start-Up Hub and editorial coverage on NutraIngredients’ website.
They will also have access to networking through the summit’s event app and one-to-one meetings, giving them the chance to connect with others working across the sports nutrition industry.
Each winning company will also receive a Start-Up Stars trophy.
Who can enter?
The initiative is open to independently owned start-ups founded in North or South America within the last 10 years.
To qualify, businesses must have fewer than 20 employees and be at Series A funding stage or earlier.
There are no restrictions on the type of sports or active nutrition innovation being developed, with applications welcome from businesses working on ingredients, finished products, technologies and other solutions for the sector.
Entry is free, and applications close Friday, Nov. 13, 2026.
The three winning companies will be invited to the February summit, where they can share their work with the wider sports and active nutrition industry.
Find out more and submit an entry to Start-Up Stars 2027 here.
