Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) for Innovative Student Entrepreneurs…

The Entrepreneurs’ Organization’s Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) are the premier global competition for student entrepreneurs who actively run a business. EO GSEA is an exclusive opportunity for student entrepreneurs to make connections, find resources, and grow their businesses!

Application Deadline:

• Varies by local/national competition (held throughout the year; Global Finals typically in June).

Tell Me About The Award:

The Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) is the premier global competition for university and college students who own and operate a business while enrolled in school. Since 1998, it has provided mentorship, recognition, and connections to help student entrepreneurs grow their ventures.

Which Fields are Eligible?

• Entrepreneurship across all industries.
• Any student-owned and operated business that meets eligibility requirements.

Type:

• Entrepreneurship Competition | Global | Cash + Business Services

Who can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Be 18–30 years old.
• Be enrolled in a university or college (undergraduate or graduate).
• Be the owner, founder, or controlling shareholder of the business.
• Have operated the business for at least six consecutive months.
• Have generated at least US$500 in revenue or received US$1000 in investment.
• Not have competed in the Global Finals in previous years.

How are Applicants Selected?

Judging criteria focus on both the student entrepreneur and the business:

• Entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and leadership.
• Integration of student and business roles.
• Commitment to building a better tomorrow.
• EO Core Values: Trust & Respect, Thirst for Learning, Think Big & Be Bold, Together We Grow.
• Business fundamentals, vision, and growth potential.

Which Countries Are Eligible?

• 39 countries, 90+ cities worldwide host local competitions.
• Winners advance to regional rounds and then to the Global Finals in Cape Town, South Africa.

Where will the Award be Taken?

• Local competitions → Regional rounds → Global Finals in Cape Town, South Africa.

How Many Awards?

• Top 20 student entrepreneurs compete at the Global Finals.

What is the Benefit of the Award?

• US$100,000 total prize pool at Global Finals.
  • 1st place: US$50,000
  • 2nd place: US$25,000
  • 3rd place: US$15,000
• Mentorship from successful entrepreneurs.
• Networking with EO members and global innovators.
• Media exposure through the Start it Up docuseries (10M+ views).
• Business services and local/national prizes (vary by location).

How Long Will the Award Last?

• Competition cycle runs annually, culminating in Global Finals in June.

How to Apply:

1. Confirm eligibility (student status, age, business requirements).
2. Apply through your local/national GSEA competition portal.
3. Compete locally, then regionally, and advance to Global Finals if selected.

Visit the Application Webpage for details

Award Provider: The Entrepreneurs’ Organization