FELLOWS & FELLOWSHIPS

Honoring the People Who Make Global Innovation Possible

At the Global Student Startup Competition (GSSC), we celebrate the individuals whose vision, mentorship, and leadership create ripples far beyond a single event. Our Fellowships and Awards honor those who go above and beyond to empower the next generation of changemakers—from student founders to mentors to ecosystem builders.

Fellow Awards of Distinction

These recognitions are presented at GSSC and the Asian Leadership Conference to spotlight excellence in global entrepreneurship, mentorship, and investment.

Global Entrepreneurship Fellow Award

“For inspiring and empowering the next generation of global innovators.”

Selected by the co-chairs of GSSC, this rare and prestigious award honors an individual whose lifelong contributions have transformed global entrepreneurship education for students. It recognizes enduring dedication to mentorship, cross-border innovation, and student impact.

Awarded only when truly merited.

Global Mentor Fellow Award

“For extraordinary guidance and inspiration across borders.”

Chosen by both the organizing team and participating students, this annual award celebrates a mentor who has gone above and beyond in guiding, supporting, and empowering student teams. This Fellow embodies the heart of cross-cultural collaboration and long-lasting mentorship.

Entrepreneurship Awards

Young Entrepreneur of the Year

This annual award honors a rising star in Korea’s startup ecosystem—an entrepreneur aged 30 or younger who has demonstrated outstanding innovation, leadership, and promise. Selected by GSSC and ALC organizers, this individual represents the bold spirit of Korea’s next generation of founders.

Entrepreneur of the Year

This award celebrates a standout Korean entrepreneur whose career exemplifies excellence in innovation, leadership, and impact. As a role model for emerging founders, this individual’s journey reflects the values of the GSSC community: vision, courage, and real-world change.

Fellowship Opportunities

GSSC Fellowships exist to remove barriers, amplify leadership, and build long-term connections across borders. These are more than financial grants—they are platforms for lifelong impact.

Global Ecosystem Fellowship

$3,000 Stipend | For Local Leaders with Global Impact

Awarded to outstanding community builders, organizers, and ecosystem leaders, this fellowship supports immersive learning experiences in global innovation hubs.

Whether it’s a learning journey to Silicon Valley or an ecosystem exchange in Seoul, fellows use this opportunity to grow connections, share insights, and bring the world closer together.

Sponsored by:
Nitin Kale, Timothy Li, and Dennis DeMeyere

Global Student Entrepreneurship Fellowship

For Students Competing or Organizing GSSC:

This fellowship ensures full access to GSSC—regardless of financial background. It supports students selected to either organize or compete in the competition.

  • International Fellows: Airfare, lodging, and most meals are fully covered.
  • Korean Fellows: Lodging and meals provided throughout the competition.

This support allows students to focus fully on building human-centered ventures, learning from global mentors, and forming lifelong cross-cultural partnerships.