FAQ's
What is the GSV Cup?
In its third year, the GSV Cup Competition is a global pitch competition for $1M in cash and credit prizes. The GSV Cup is a call for early stage EdTech startups to apply to be one of the “Elite 200” presenters at the 2022 ASU+GSV Summit from April 4 - 6, 2022 in San Diego and virtually. The finalists will compete on Stage X at ASU+GSV and take home prize package totaling $500,000 in non-dilutive cash and upwards of $500,000 in prizes.
Who should apply?
The competition is open to both U.S. based and international startups in the education and digital learning sector across Prek to Gray. Startups who are pre-seed or seed stage by November 19th, 2021 are eligible to apply.
When is the application due?
The application is due November 19th, 2021 at midnight PST.
What is required for the application?
A written application answering basic questions about your startup and a 2-3 minute pitch video. The video should feature the founder of the company. 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 to applying for the GSV Cup?
In addition to the $1 Million in cash and prizes for the top startups, all companies in the Elite 200 will unique receive perks:
- A complimentary ticket to the ASU+GSV Summit
- Pitch your startup to leading VC's and investors
- Exposure for your startup
- An exclusive invitation to the ASU+GSV "Startup Academy" which includes workshops with leading industry professionals and a Happy Hour networking event with investors
What is the "Elite 200"?
The top 200 pre-seed and seed Pre-K to Gray digital education and skills companies chosen out of the pool of GSV Cup applicants. All companies in the “Elite 200” will receive a complimentary ticket to the ASU+GSV Summit for the CEO/founder from the company, as well as a special entrepreneur rate for the presenting company 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 have judged.
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 2022. 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 2022: Elite 200 Announcement
February 2022: GSV Cup Top 25
April 5th, 2022: The Top 10 finalists will do a 3-minute pitch live at the ASU+GSV Summit. The Top 10 companies will receive special promotions and upwards of $500,000 in prizes. Watch the 2021 Top 10 here.
April 6th, 2022: The Final 3 finalists will compete on Stage X on for $500,000 in prize money and upwards of $500,000 in prizes. Watch the 2021 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, HubSpot, and HolonIQ.
What is the GSV Ventures Fund?
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.
