Facebook's FbStart global startup program offers free tools and services that empower entrepreneurs and developers to scale their businesses. To recognize and reward the most innovative startups in the FbStart program, Facebook is hosting its annual Apps of the Year awards competition.

Apps of the Year Prizes

We acknowledge how challenging it can be to build, scale, and stand out from the growing and competitive mobile landscape. That's why we're awarding each winner with a cash prize and Facebook advertising credit to help accelerate their business ideas and obtain new customers.

Facebook will award $160,000 in prizes to five members; $100,000 to a global grand prize winner, and $60,000 split among three regional winners and one Social Good App of the Year.

• Global App of the Year: $100,000 prize ($50,000 in cash and $50,000 in Facebook advertising credit), including mentorship from Facebook's team to help the startup accelerate their growth.
• Regional App of the Year (three winners): $15,000 per winner ($7,500 in cash and $7,500 in Facebook advertising credit).
• Social Good App of the Year: $15,000 ($7,500 in cash and $7,500 in Facebook advertising credit)

Startup Eligibility

This year's competition recognizes FbStart mobile app startups that demonstrate exceptional growth and potential for continued success, deliver great consumer experiences and design, and leverage Facebook developer products to drive engagement. Similar to last year, entries will be judged by an esteemed panel of mobile development experts, investors, startup founders, and Facebook.

The 2017 Apps of the Year competition will accept submissions for native iOS or Android mobile apps. If you are an FBStart bot developer, we are committed to creating experiences that will showcase the great work of our bot developer community, and we’re currently building competitions that are specifically dedicated for you. Stay tuned!

Regional finalists will be asked to submit a 60-90 second video pitch for judges to review. All apps must be members of FbStart and integrated with Facebook's developer tools to be eligible. FbStart members that meet the eligibility requirements must apply by May 1, 2017 at 12 am PST to be considered for the competition. If you're not a member, apply to FbStart by April 15, 2017 in order to be considered.

Apply Now

We look forward to receiving FbStart member submissions, and honoring a new batch of innovative startups that are paving the way for many aspiring entrepreneurs.

Apply for the 2017 FbStart Apps of the Year awards here.