University Startup World Cup 2019

Deadline: 20 July 2019
Open to: all students or recent graduates who will implement 1 of the 17 UN sustainable goals within their startup
Benefits: the grand prize is 15,000 USD and each finalist receives 1000 USD grant

Description

Best 40 University Startups from around the world come together from October 30th to November 1st, 2019 to network, exhibit, and pitch for a chance to win 15,000 USD. Individual grant is also available.

University Startup World Cup has been running for five years. Their goal is to feature university startups from around the world that are making an impact. That’s why they’ve made sure to incorporate the SDGs within the foundation of their program.

They’ve set up the application process differently this year. They’ve designed an online program teaching basic Nordic style methods to ensure all of their participants have an equal chance. The program begins from May to July where startups will work at their own leisure, and submit mini assignments which will be added to their application for the judging round.

UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals will be the backbone of this year’s USWC.

The implications of not meeting the SDGs have real-world consequences that will touch the lives of everyone. Youth, in particular, will suffer the most if the SDGs are not met, simply due to the reality of longevity. The fact is not meeting the SDGs is a problem, so involving and motivating youth to participate in achieving the SDGs is essential – especially given the high proportion of youth populations around the world, such as in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

The organization behind USWC is called Venture Cup. Venture Cup Denmark is an association of all the Danish universities (except RUC). They work to promote and showcase entrepreneurship among university students and help eliminate the gap between the academic world and the business community. A pioneer in the field, Venture Cup has been founded in 2000 as one of the first entrepreneurial organizations in the country.

They host two national startup competitions annually, a University Startup World Cup with teams from all over the world and Scandinavia’s largest Startup Mentors program for university students powered by Hempel Foundation. Early 2018 they have launched the program Nordic HealthTech Talents with the support of Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Eligibility

  • You must currently be a student, have a student on your team or have graduated within 2 years;
  • Students must have at least 2 co-founders;
  • Implementing 1 of the 17 UN sustainable development goals within their startup.

Benefits

  • Access to other talented startups from Denmark and around the world;
  • Exhibit your startup at High Tech Summit;
  • 1000 USD grant with no strings attached;
  • Get face to face mentor time;
  • The grand prize is 15,000 USD.

How to apply?

You can apply using the following link.

For more information, please visit the official website.