VCC Investment Cup

The VCC Investment Cup 2026, taking place on May 29–30 at HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management, is a two-day immersive venture capital experience where students step into the role of investors and compete in a high-intensity, real-time case simulation. Participants work in teams to evaluate startups, build investment theses, and pitch to a jury, while gaining hands-on exposure to real-world deal flow, valuation, and decision-making. The experience combines practical learning with expert insights, a VC panel, and an international networking dinner, bringing together ambitious students from top institutions. Teams will compete across multiple rounds, culminating in final pitches and an award ceremony, with a €2,000 prize pool at stake.

Info: The event begins with a short welcome and introduction to the VCC Investment Cup. You’ll be briefed on the structure of the competition, evaluation criteria, and what to expect over the two days. This session sets the context for the case and aligns all participants before diving into the simulation.

Hear directly from experienced venture capital professionals as they share insights into how investment decisions are made in practice. The discussion will cover current market trends, what VCs look for in startups, and how to think like an investor. This is also an opportunity to gain practical perspectives before starting your own investment journey in the competition.

Info: In this first working session, teams step into the role of venture capitalists and build their own investment fund from the ground up. You will define your fund’s identity- including its fund size, structure, investment thesis, target sectors, stage focus, and strategic positioning. This is where you decide what kind of investors you want to be and how you will differentiate yourselves. By the end of the session, each team should have a clear, coherent fund strategy that will guide all investment decisions throughout the competition.

Info: In this session, teams present their fund strategy and investment approach to a panel of experienced jury members. You will outline your fund thesis, positioning, and the rationale behind your key decisions — including sector focus, stage, and allocation strategy. The jury will challenge your assumptions, test the coherence of your strategy, and evaluate how clearly and convincingly you can think and communicate like investors. This is your opportunity to demonstrate both strategic depth and decision-making under pressure.

Info: Building on your defined fund strategy, teams now move into active investing. You will evaluate startup opportunities, apply your thesis, and decide how to allocate your fund across selected ventures. This involves analyzing key business metrics, assessing risks, and making clear investment decisions aligned with your strategy. By the end of this session, each team should have a well-reasoned portfolio and a strong narrative explaining why these investments fit their fund.

Info: Unwind and connect in a relaxed setting alongside fellow participants, jury members, and venture capital professionals. This is an opportunity to build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas, and continue conversations beyond the competition. Whether you’re exploring career paths in VC or simply expanding your network, the evening is designed to foster open, informal interactions.

Info: The second day begins with a brief recap of key learnings from Day 1 and an outline of what lies ahead. You’ll receive final instructions and expectations for the concluding rounds, ensuring all teams are aligned before moving into the final phase of the competition.

Info: Teams continue refining their investment decisions, strengthening their portfolio, and preparing for the final presentations. This includes validating assumptions, sharpening your investment rationale, and ensuring your portfolio clearly reflects your fund thesis. By the end of this session, teams should be fully prepared to present a cohesive and well-justified investment strategy to the jury.

Info: In the final round, teams present their complete investment journey — from fund strategy to final portfolio — to the jury. You will showcase your fund thesis, investment decisions, and how your selected startups align with your overall strategy. The jury will evaluate the strength, consistency, and clarity of your approach, while also challenging your assumptions and decision-making. This is your opportunity to demonstrate a coherent investment narrative and defend your strategy under real-world VC scrutiny.

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Host or Publisher Venture Capital Club- HHL