FAQ's
THE 2023 APPLICATION IS NOW OPEN: https://gsvcup2023.paperform.co/
What is the GSV Cup?
The GSV Cup is a global pitch competition for Pre-Seed and Seed stage EdTech startups culminating at the ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego. The Cup is judged by 190+ leading venture capitalist firms and strategics from across the globe, with finalists competing for $1MM in non-dilutive cash and prizes.
Each year, applicants compete to be named one of the “Elite 200” semi-finalists. The “Elite 200” receive complimentary access to the ASU+GSV Summit, fantastic prizes, and public recognition as one of the World’s Most Innovative EdTech Startups. From there, the Top 20 finalists compete on the main stage at the Summit to take home the grand prize packages totaling $500,000 in non-dilutive cash and $500,000 in prizes.
Who should apply?
The global competition is open to any and all Pre-Seed and Seed stage startups innovating within the digital learning and workforce skills sector. Startups that are Pre-Seed or Seed stage by September 1st, 2022 are eligible to apply.
When is the application due?
The application is due September 30th, at midnight PST.
What is required for the application?
Applicants must submit a written application to answer basic questions about your startup and a 2-3 minute pitch video that features the company’s founder. Videos should be submitted via YouTube link (make sure it is set to public!)
What is the framework for evaluation?
Judges will focus on the “5 P’s”: People (team), Product (solution), Potential (market), Predictability (milestones/roadmap), and Purpose (corporate mission). Read more about the 5 P's here.
What are the benefits of applying for the GSV Cup?
In addition to the grand prize packages totaling $500,000 in non-dilutive cash and $500,000 in prizes, companies that make it into the “Elite 200” will receive:
- A complimentary ticket to the 2023 ASU+GSV Summit
- Massive exposure for your startup to a global audience
- The opportunity to pitch your firm to top EdTech VCs/Strategics from around the globe
- Exclusive access to the GSV Cup “Startup Academy Series,” which includes workshops with leading industry professionals and a Happy Hour networking event with investors at the Summit
What is the "Elite 200"?
Companies named to the "Elite 200" list are the World’s 200 Most Innovative Pre-Seed and Seed stage EdTech Startups within the Pre-K to Gray digital learning sector. All companies in the “Elite 200” receive a complimentary ticket to the ASU+GSV Summit for their CEO/founder and a special entrepreneur rate for their team.
Can I know who judged my application?
Unfortunately, no. We cannot disclose who judged your application unless the judge decides, on their own, to reach out to a company they evaluated.
When will I know if I’m part of the “Elite 200” and invited to participate in the ASU GSV Summit?
We will release decisions in January 2023. Note: if you are not selected as an “Elite 200”, you will still receive an entrepreneur-rate discount to attend the Summit. We will contact you with a code.
What are the major dates for GSV Cup finalists?
January 2023: Elite 200 Announcement
March 2023: GSV Cup Top 20 Announcement
April 18th, 2023: The Top 20 finalists will do a 3-minute pitch live at the ASU+GSV Summit. The Top 20 companies will receive special promotions and prizes. Watch the 2022 Top 20 here.
April 19th, 2023: The Final 3 will compete at the Rady Shell for $500,000 in prize money and additional prizes. Watch the 2022 Final 3 here.
If I have entered the GSV Cup or presented at the ASU+GSV Summit, can I still apply?
Yes! Absolutely.
Who are the sponsors of the GSV Cup?
GSV Ventures, HolonIQ, and Google Cloud. More to come!
What is GSV Ventures?
GSV Ventures is a global venture capital firm investing in technology entrepreneurs creating scaled solutions across the “Pre-K to Gray” digital education & skills sectors. Portfolio companies include Guild Education, Master Class, Pluralsight, TurnItIn, Coursera, Course Hero, and Degreed, amongst others.
