Global Social Entrepreneurship Competition

The Global Social Entrepreneurship Competition (GSEC) is a leading-edge international social venture plan competition, wehre interdisciplinary student teams from around the world propose creative, commercially viable business plans aimed at reducing poverty in the developing world. 

From affordable, nutritious meals for slum dwellers in Mumbai, to mobile wind turbines in Kazakhstan, to solar oven-powered water purification systems in Tanzania, GSEC business plans demonstrate the power of business to create sustainable, positive change to some of the world’s most challenging social problems.

Each year, GSEC brings the world to UW: a select group of semi-finalist teams from around the globe are invited to Seattle for GSEC Week. Teams visit regional companies, present their business ideas to judges, and compete for prizes, including two global health prizes.

This is an exciting time to be a part of GSEC: We received an unprecedented 161 applications from student teams in 36 countries, more than double from last year.  Since its inception, over 1200 students from 39 countries have participated in GSEC.  

Each year more than 150 professionals provide invaluable expertise and resources as mentors, judges, and sponsors.  Learn how to get involved.