PolyU sparkles innovation and entrepreneurship through Global Student Challenge 2017

[Sponsored article] Presenting in-depth details about a new product or service backed by a viable business plan is never an easy proposition, even for seasoned business owners. However, this is what teams of budding entrepreneurs from universities and secondary schools around the world achieved at The 5th Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) Innovation and Entrepreneurship Global Student Challenge (GSC) 2017.

The bi-annual event received over 250 applications from different schools around the world. A shortlist of 40 teams, 20 from universities and 20 from secondary schools, comprising 150 contestants from 22 countries and territories, were selected and sponsored to take part in the semi-final and final of GSC that took place in the last week of June in Hong Kong.

International participation with a wide range of topics

Coordinated over two days, the teams made their presentations before judges from not only Hong Kong, but places all over the world, including Brazil, Canada, Israel, the Netherlands, the USA, and the Mainland. Each team was given 15 minutes to present their proposals, followed by 15 minutes of detailed questioning from the judges. The judging panels, consisted of business executives, university professors, experienced entrepreneurs, and angel and venture capitalists, then picked the winners by assessing the innovation and creativity of the product or service, market analysis, management model, financial viability and social impact and sustainability of the proposed schemes. Final results were announced at a Gala Dinner to round up the event.