GSSC EXPERIENCE
As part of the GSSC, students will join in on a robust program to receive mentorship from entrepreneurial experts, learn how to develop their ventures and pitches, and prepare to network leading up to this life-changing opportunity May 2025, in Seoul, South Korea
Timeline
University Selection Deadline
Professor Kick-Off
Team Selection Deadline
Student Kick-Off
Competition
Mentor Workshops
March – May 2025
Once universities and student teams are finalized by a deadline of March 12, 2025, each student team will be paired with an entrepreneurial expert to mentor them throughout the independent work period leading up to their in-Seoul experience.
Mentors will meet with students once every two weeks to provide feedback and deeper insights to guide the development of a working prototype, business deck, and 10-minute presentation in English.
Seoul Pitch Bootcamp
May 18-20, 2025
The Pitch Bootcamp is a two-day educational, team-building, and networking activities for the student teams.
Mentors and entrepreneurship experts will provide mentorship and workshops such as:
- Perfecting Your Elevator Pitch
- Do’s and Don’ts of Pitching
- Getting Ready To Go On Stage
- Tackling Q&A During Pitch Presentations
- Networking at ALC
May 18, 2025
Check-in & free time
May 19, 2025
Opening ceremony
Entrepreneurial curriculum
Mentor workshop
Overnight working sessions
May 20, 2025
Preliminary Pitch Round
Judges deliberations
Planned free day in Korea
Finnish Ambassador dinner
Pitch Rounds
May 20-22, 2025
PRELIMINARY ROUND
May 20, 2025
The twelve teams will present their venture to a panel of judges.
After the Preliminary Round, teams will embark on an afternoon/evening of Seoul Immersion Activities.
The top four teams selected by the local judges to advance to the Final Round will be announced by 8PM
The top four teams will have one day to work closely with mentors to prepare for the Final Round.
FINAL ROUND
May 22, 2025
The top four or five teams will pitch to a live audience of ALC attendees and a panel of distinguished judges.
There may be opportunities for different winner categories.
The Final Round may be held in the Main ALC Conference Hall.
Asian Leadership Conference
Students will travel to Seoul, South Korea from
May 18 ~ May 22, 2025.
Upon arrival, students will become immersed in Seoul City:
- Welcome Event by the local university students
- GSSC Group Dinner
- After-Dinner Activities
These social events aim to foster camaraderie and cultural exchange among the participants, setting the stage for collaboration and networking throughout the competition.
Prize
The winning team will receive international recognition and their project will be published in the Chosun Ilbo, providing exposure and credibility within the entrepreneurial community.
No monetary reward is awarded to avoid any student visa issues with any monetary prizes.
Rubric
Relevance to the Theme:
“Human-centered AI—improving human society using AI.” Teams should ensure their projects clearly demonstrate how AI contributes to societal well-being.
Global Impact:
The project is evaluated on its ability to drive global social and economic impact by addressing societal challenges, fostering inclusivity, ensuring sustainability, and promoting growth through job creation and market expansion.
Product Feasibility and Development
Assesses the practicality of the product concept, development roadmap, and resource availability for effective execution.
Market Traction and Validation
Measures the project’s ability to gain user interest and validate demand through initial market engagement.
Team Presentation
Evaluates the team’s clarity, organization, and ability to present the project compellingly to diverse audiences and stakeholders.