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Join us for EO Detroit’s own version of Shark Tank.

The Detroit Chapter of the Entrepreneurs Organization will once again host the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) on January 15th in Troy, Michigan. The winner of the local competition can go on to complete at the regional, national, and ultimately international competition hosted in Cape Town, South Africa.  

This event is a 5-minute business pitch competition where students describe the concept and approach behind their functioning business. The event will be limited to the first 8 qualified applicants and there is no cost to enter.

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Supporting the next generation of innovators.

EO also supports the next generation of innovators through the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA), a premier competition that recognizes and empowers student entrepreneurs around the world.

GSEA provides young founders with mentorship, exposure, and access to a global network of successful entrepreneurs, helping them accelerate both their business and personal growth. Through programs like GSEA, EO continues to champion entrepreneurship at every stage — from startup to seasoned leadership.

Check to see if you qualify:

These are the qualification requirements to compete in GSEA.
  • Operate a company for at least 6 months
  • Have generated at least $500 in revenue or $1000 investment/prior pitch prize
  • Be currently enrolled in a Michigan-based college or university
  • 30 years of age or less
  • Undergraduate or graduate college level
  • Must apply and compete in a competition in their country of origin or study

Think positively and plan ahead. Remember the winner will have the ability to compete in locations outside the United States, so ensure you have a passport and are ready to travel.

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How does GSEA differ from a standard student pitch competition?

The Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) isn’t your typical pitch contest — it’s a transformational experience for student founders who are already running real businesses.

1.

Focus on the Entrepreneur

Unlike most pitch competitions that judge business ideas, GSEA evaluates the student’s entrepreneurial journey — their drive, innovation, resilience, and leadership.

2.

Real Businesses, Not Just Ideas

Participants must be actively operating a business while enrolled as a student, proving their ability to balance academics with real-world responsibilities.

3.

Global, Multi-Level Format

GSEA begins with local EO chapter competitions, advances to national rounds, and culminates in a global finals event that connects students to a worldwide network of entrepreneurs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need a passport to compete?

Technically you do not need a passport to compete at the Detroit competition, but if you do win you will be travelling to Mexico for the next level of competition within two weeks.  Given the short turnaround and passport requirements for international travel, it makes sense to be ready. If the first-place winner cannot travel (because passport is not ready) then the second-place winner will be sent in their place. 

How is this competition different from other pitch competitions?

GSEA is a program of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) that celebrates and supports students who are running their own businesses while pursuing a college or university degree. It’s more than a pitch competition — GSEA helps student entrepreneurs grow through mentorship, feedback, and access to a global network of successful business.

Who pays for the Detroit winner to travel to other GSEA competitions?

All travel expenses for GSEA competitions outside the local Detroit competition will be covered by EO. The only items student winners are responsible for is transportation to the local Detroit airport and parking at the Detroit airport.

Who is eligible to compete in GSEA?

To participate, you must be:

  • Enrolled in a Michigan college or university as an undergraduate or graduate student.
  • The owner, founder, or controlling shareholder of a business that has been operational for at least six months with revenue of $500.00 or $1000.00 in investor/prior pitch prize money
  • Primarily responsible for the business’s operation.
  • 30 years old or younger as of the start of the competition year.

How is GSEA different from other student pitch competitions?

Unlike traditional pitch contests that focus only on business ideas, GSEA evaluates the entrepreneur’s journey — their leadership, innovation, and ability to balance academics with running a real company. The program also emphasizes mentorship and learning over prize money, creating a meaningful growth experience for every participant.

What does the competition process look like?

GSEA has a multi-level format:

  1. Local competitions are hosted by EO chapters around the world.
  2. National winners advance to represent their countries.
  3. Global Finals bring together top student entrepreneurs from over 50 countries for an international competition and learning event.

What do winners receive?

Winners gain more than just financial prizes — they earn global recognition, mentorship, and access to EO’s international community of entrepreneurs. Many past competitors credit GSEA with helping them scale their businesses, attract investors, and accelerate their professional development.

How can I apply to compete?

Applications can be submitted by using the link or below. You’ll need to provide information about yourself, your business, and a brief video or written summary describing your entrepreneurial journey.

Apply Now

When do competitions take place?

The Detroit competition will be held on January 15, 2026, with national and global competitions taking place in the spring of the 2026.

Why does EO host GSEA?

The Entrepreneurs’ Organization believes in empowering entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. GSEA reflects EO’s mission to learn and grow through shared experiences — helping student founders build confidence, resilience, and connections that last a lifetime.

So what is the Entrepreneurs' Organization?

Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) is a global network of leading entrepreneurs dedicated to helping one another achieve greater business success and personal fulfillment. Founded in 1987, EO connects more than 18,000 members across 75 countries through a vibrant community built on trust, shared learning, and collaboration.

EO’s mission is to engage leading entrepreneurs to learn and grow — personally and professionally — through peer-to-peer experiences, education, and meaningful connections. The organization empowers members to expand their leadership capabilities, strengthen their businesses, and make a positive impact in their communities and industries.

EO also supports the next generation of innovators through the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA), a premier competition that recognizes and empowers student entrepreneurs around the world. GSEA provides young founders with mentorship, exposure, and access to a global network of successful entrepreneurs, helping them accelerate both their business and personal growth. Through programs like GSEA, EO continues to champion entrepreneurship at every stage — from startup to seasoned leadership.