Student entrepreneurs pitch their businesses to judges in Jeddah. Applications are reviewed based on criteria including innovation, market opportunity, and social impact. The winner advances to Round 2.
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Round 2: Regional Finals (Lahore)
The local winner competes in Lahore, presenting to judges and answering questions. This regional champion then represents Saudi Arabia at the Global Finals.
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Round 3: Global Finals (Cape Town)
The Saudi National Champion competes against global student entrepreneurs. Participants have networking opportunities and a chance to win 50,000$ and gain global recognition.
Event Timeline
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Committee Formation
By November 20, roles assigned. Expert judges and dedicated chairs in place.
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Outreach & Sponsorship
December 5th deadline. Secure sponsors and build buzz through strategic communications.
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Competition Day
January 4th, 2025, Exciting demos and selection of the Saudi winner.
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GSEA Regional Finals
February 4th, 2025. Majles (Lahore) hosts the grand finale, showcasing Saudi talent globally.
GSEA Saudi Committee
GSEA Saudi Chair
Oversees the entire competition, ensuring smooth execution and alignment with global standards.
Expert Judges
3-6 industry leaders evaluate and mentor participants, bringing valuable insights.
Sponsorship Chair
Secures financial support, targeting 3-6 sponsors to fuel the competition's success.
PR and Comms Chair
Manages media coverage, social media presence, and overall event promotion.
Sponsorship Opportunities
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Premium Tier - 150K SAR
Elite Partnership Status & Unparalleled Brand Exposure
3 VIP passes to local & global events with keynote speaking opportunities
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Enhanced Tier - 100K SAR
Distinguished Recognition & Strategic Visibility
1 VIP pass to local & global events with featured speaking opportunity
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Foundation Tier - 50K SAR
Premium Brand Positioning & Exclusive Local Event Access - 1 VIP Pass to local event Only
Direct engagement with Saudi's top student entrepreneurs
Join us as a GSEA Saudi 24/25 sponsor and position your brand at the forefront of Saudi Arabia's entrepreneurial revolution. Your investment goes beyond visibility - it directly empowers the kingdom's most promising student entrepreneurs while connecting you to an exclusive network of industry leaders, innovative startups, and future business pioneers. Choose your level of impact starting at 50,000 SAR and help shape the next generation of Saudi business excellence.
Budget Allocation
40%
Marketing
Funds allocated for widespread promotion across various channels. Ensures maximum visibility and participant engagement.
30%
Awards & Gifts
Includes cash prizes, trophies, and GSEA branded items. Recognizes and rewards top performers.
30%
Travel & Accommodation
Covers expenses for finalists and expert judges. Ensures diverse participation from across Saudi Arabia.
Prizes Unveiled at GSEA Global
Cash Prizes
The top three winners at the GSEA Global Finals receive a total of US$100,000 in cash, with first place getting US$50,000, second place US$25,000, and third place US$15,000.
Business Services
In addition to cash prizes, GSEA provides a range of valuable business services to support student entrepreneurs.
Mentorship
The opportunity to learn from and be mentored by successful entrepreneurs who can offer guidance and insights.
Networking
Connections with other student entrepreneurs, Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) members, and special guests.
Media Exposure
The "Start it Up" docuseries will highlight your business and your experience at the GSEA Global Finals.
GSEA Saudi Participant Benefits
Cash Prizes
Substantial awards totaling 50,000 SAR for top performers, fueling business growth.
Mentorship
Exclusive guidance from EO members. Minimum 2 hours for all participants.
Recognition
Trophies and GSEA gift items celebrate achievements and foster pride.
Networking
Invaluable connections with fellow entrepreneurs, judges, and industry leaders.
Media Coverage
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Social Media Presence
Dedicated GSEA Saudi accounts share real-time updates and participant stories.
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Television Features
Partnerships with local networks spotlight the competition and its inspiring entrepreneurs.
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Print and Online News
Comprehensive coverage in leading publications before, during, and after the event.
Students Eligibility
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Enrollment Requirement
You must be enrolled for the current academic year in a university/college as an undergraduate or graduate* student at the time of application. Full-time enrollment is not required; part-time enrollment is acceptable.
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Student Business Ownership
You must be the owner, founder or controlling shareholder of your student business. Each company can be represented by only one owner/co-founder - studentpreneur.
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Business Operation Time
Your student business must have been in operation for at least six consecutive months prior to the application.
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Financial Requirement
Your business must have generated US $500 or received US $1000 in investments at the time of application.
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Previous Participation
You should not have been one of the final round competitors from any previous year’s GSEA Global Finals Competition.
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Age Requirement
The age cap for participation is 18-30 years of age.
*Graduate students are eligible to apply only if they have continually enrolled in a university following their undergraduate degree and not left school to work on their business or to seek other employment. Exceptions can be made for students who have taken up to one academic year off before beginning their postgraduate education.
Empower Your Entrepreneurial Journey with GSEA Saudi 24/25
Join us and be part of a movement that supports and empowers student entrepreneurs.