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:
- Confirm eligibility (student status, age, business requirements).
- Apply through your local/national GSEA competition portal.
- Compete locally, then regionally, and advance to Global Finals if selected.
Visit the Application Webpage for details
Award Provider: The Entrepreneurs’ Organization
