The search for “the GEW 50” – the 50 of the most promising ventures from around the world – is rapidly approaching. The submissions deadline for Startup Open, a featured competition at 2011 Global Entrepreneurship Week that recognizes startups with high-growth potential, is now only one week away. Entrants can register at startupopen.com/register until Sept. 15.
Each of the 50 startups chosen will compete for a host of prizes, including an all-expenses paid trip to participate in Liverpool’s Global Entrepreneurship Congress in March 2012. A second winner will receive one year of mentoring from Redbox founding members and serial entrepreneurs Michael DeLazzer and Biju Kulathaka, courtesy of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization.
Taking part is simple. Entrepreneurs who have a "startup moment" between GEW 2010 and GEW 2011 (Nov. 22, 2010 to Nov. 20, 2011) are eligible to enter. A “startup moment” is anything that can be interpreted as the company is “open for business,” such as a business is incorporated, a first sale is completed or outside funding is secured.
Applicants will be judged on concept, growth projections, and knowledge of their industry. Names of “the GEW 50” will be announced on Oct. 15. Prize winners will be announced on Nov. 14 as GEW 2011 kicks off.
