Global Startup Awards

Overview

Global Startup Awards (GSA) is an international platform that hosts startup competitions and events designed to connect founders with investors, corporate partners, and government entities. Founded in Denmark in 2012 as the Nordic Startup Awards by Kim Balle and Peter Kovacs, the organization has expanded into a network operating across 156 countries and nine regions [1, 2]. GSA focuses on building local and global startup ecosystems by providing entrepreneurs with a stage for recognition and direct access to potential backers and mentors [1, 2]. According to the organization, its alumni network has included 17 unicorns with a combined valuation of $70 billion [0, 1]. GSA facilitates engagement through competitive processes and various community-building initiatives, aiming to bridge the gap between startup ecosystems and stakeholders in the global innovation economy [1, 2]. The platform continues to run annual competition cycles to highlight and connect participants within the innovation landscape [0, 3].