YES

Pitch Rounds

Semi-Final and Grand Final

The last two rounds are judged through a live pitch, not files. This page shows their order and where you stand within them.

Temporary page

The committee hasn't yet set the dates, venues, or format of the two rounds. Whatever isn't certain is written plainly as awaiting the committee — not guessed. This page will be updated as soon as the decisions are out.

Round 1

Semi-Final Pitch

The 20 semi-finalists give a 5-minute presentation plus 5-minute Q&A before the judging panel.

Approximate timing
Week 2 Dec 2026
Who takes part
Top 20 semi-finalists

Confirmed

  • The 20 participants with the highest proposal scores advance. (Program Design §17)
  • The format is a 5-minute presentation + 5-minute Q&A. (Program Design §7)
  • From this round, 10 are selected to advance to the Grand Final. (Program Design §17)
  • The round is held online. (Keputusan pemilik, 8 September 2026)

Awaiting the committee

  • The exact date
  • Judging criteria weights

Announced beforehand at the Top 20 Semi-Finalists stage (End Nov 2026).

Round 2

Grand Final

The 10 finalists give a final 7-minute presentation plus 8-minute Q&A before 5 judges.

Approximate timing
Week 4 Jan 2027
Who takes part
Top 10 finalists

Confirmed

  • The format is a 7-minute presentation + 8-minute Q&A before 5 judges. (Program Design §7)
  • Held together with YES Connect; the winners are announced at the same event. (Program Design §7, §25)
  • There is a Finalist Pitch Refinement period before the day itself. (Master Calendar)
  • The round is held in person. (Keputusan pemilik, 8 September 2026)

Awaiting the committee

  • The exact date
  • The venue and stage format
  • Who the five judges are

Announced beforehand at the Top 10 Finalists stage (Week 4 Dec 2026).

Need help?

Questions about registration, the Academy schedule, or your proposal can go to the official channels below.

Email
info@sayyes.ae