The Entrepreneurship World Cup 2025 is now accepting applications from innovative entrepreneurs around the world. Whether you’re at the idea stage, early stage, or already scaling, this competition provides access to funding, global exposure, mentorship, and a community of world-class founders. With over $1 million in total prizes and more than $250 million in in-kind support, this is one of the most significant global startup competitions available.
This blog post outlines all you need to know about the Entrepreneurship World Cup 2025, including how to apply, eligibility, key deadlines, and tips for a successful application.
About the Entrepreneurship World Cup 2025
Launched in 2019 and organized by the Misk Global Forum, Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), and Monsha’at, the Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) has supported over 400,000 entrepreneurs in 200+ countries. The program equips founders with resources, visibility, mentorship, and investment opportunities at every business stage.
In 2025, the competition has expanded with new categories, including space-tech startup awards, each offering $100,000 in funding.
What You Can Win
EWC 2025 offers a multi-tiered award system based on business maturity:
| Stage | Top Prize |
|---|---|
| Idea Stage | $50,000 |
| Early Stage | $100,000 |
| Growth Stage | $200,000 |
| Space-Tech Awards | $100,000 (each) |
All participants benefit from exclusive global perks, mentorship sessions, and access to the GEN network. Winners at the national level proceed to a virtual bootcamp and ultimately to the global finals.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
- Virtual Bootcamp for Top 250 Startups: July–August 2025
- Global Finals (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia): Late 2025 (TBA)
Finalists selected for the Global Finals will receive full sponsorship for travel and accommodation to pitch live in Riyadh.
Who Can Apply?
The Entrepreneurship World Cup 2025 is open to startups that meet the following criteria:
- Legally registered (or in the process) in their country
- In operation for less than 10 years
- Can be at Idea, Early, or Growth stage
- Willing to engage in virtual and in-person pitch sessions
Participation is completely free.
How to Apply
Interested entrepreneurs should complete their application via the official platform before the deadline.
To maximize your chances of success, contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review support.
✨ Expert Advice from Grants Database
According to Oluwole Omojofodun, Proposal Review Lead at Grants Database:
“To stand out in a global competition like the Entrepreneurship World Cup 2025, startups must present a compelling problem-solution narrative backed by measurable traction or market validation. It’s not just about the innovation, but your clarity, scalability, and team execution.”
Here are 5 key recommendations to strengthen your application:
- Tailor your pitch to your startup stage (Idea, Early, Growth)
- Highlight your traction (metrics, users, revenue, partners)
- Align with global impact goals (sustainability, inclusion, tech-for-good)
- Demonstrate team competence and future-readiness
- Seek external review to refine your proposal for clarity and structure
Need help crafting a winning proposal? Contact grantsdatabase.org for expert-led support in drafting, refining, and reviewing your submission.
Why Apply to the Entrepreneurship World Cup 2025?
- Compete on a global stage for major cash prizes
- Receive free training, mentoring, and visibility
- Network with top investors and global leaders
- Access $250M+ worth of startup perks and support
The Entrepreneurship World Cup 2025 is not just a competition—it’s a launchpad for startups to achieve global scale.
Don’t miss your chance to join the world’s most promising startups. Apply to the Entrepreneurship World Cup 2025 today.
