Awards

Spanning the full academic year, the Global Policy Challenge is a learning journey that equips students with the tools, networks, and support to turn policy ideas into impactful ventures — offering seed funding, mentorship, and exposure to a dynamic ecosystem of investment and entrepreneurship.

Seed Funding

Seed Funding: $75,000 will be distributed among three to five finalist teams, including a $25,000 prize specifically designated for ventures focused on the Global South.

Mentorship

Students advancing beyond Round One receive intensive support through bootcamps and mentoring from experts to sharpen their proposals. Bootcamps will include Prototyping and MVP Development, Business Model Canvas, Financial Planning, and Pitching & Storytelling.

Exposure & Networks

Finalist ventures are also eligible for a seat at the Columbia Startup Lab (CSL) in SoHo, joining a cohort of entrepreneurs with dedicated programming and support.