The Milken–Penn GSE Education Business Plan Competition is a prestigious global innovation challenge that invites founders, educators, and entrepreneurs to submit education-focused ventures that have the potential to improve learning outcomes, expand access, and transform education systems worldwide. This competition provides funding, visibility, mentorship, and strategic support for early-stage and growth-stage ventures with promising solutions.
Apply here: https://www.educationcompetition.org/
The competition welcomes teams and ventures that are developing or scaling education-focused products, services, or platforms. Eligible applicants include: Early-stage startups building novel EdTech or learning platforms
Social enterprises addressing learning gaps, equity, or inclusion
Organizations with solutions for teacher support, assessment, or workforce readiness
Innovators improving educational outcomes through technology, curriculum, community engagement, or analytics
The competition is global in scope, and ventures from Africa with strong evidence, traction, or potential for impact are encouraged to apply.
Submissions typically align with themes such as:
The competition values practical solutions that demonstrate potential for scale and measurable impact on learners and educators.
Participants in the Milken–Penn GSE Education Business Plan Competition may receive:Business Opportunities Listing
Cash prizes are awarded to top teams, providing early financing to test, expand, or scale your venture.
Access to expert advisors, education leaders, and business mentors who help refine strategy, strengthen plans, and accelerate execution.
Opportunity to present your business plan to a panel of judges, investors, and strategic partners during competition events.
Connect with a global ecosystem of funders, educators, innovators, and fellow founders at dedicated forums and showcases.
Placement in a well-recognised competition can enhance visibility, credibility, and access to later-stage funding opportunities.