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.‍‍

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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.

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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!)

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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.

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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:

1. A complimentary ticket to the ASU+GSV Summit
2. Pitch your startup to leading VC's and investors
3. Exposure for your startup
4. An exclusive invitation to the ASU+GSV "Startup Academy" which includes workshops with leading industry professionals and a Happy Hour networking event with investors

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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.

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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.

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If I have entered the GSV Cup or presented at the ASU+GSV Summit, can I still apply?

Yes! Absolutely.

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Who are the sponsors of the GSV Cup?

GSV Ventures, HubSpot, and HolonIQ.

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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.

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