Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) Bangladesh has officially launched the 10th Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) 2025-26, the world’s premier competition for student entrepreneurs, through a press meet held at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel, Dhaka.
The event, titled “Meet the Press – GSEA Bangladesh Launch 2025-26”, brought together media representatives, EO Bangladesh members, academia, and key stakeholders to highlight the journey of student entrepreneurship and the opportunities provided through the GSEA platform. The ceremony was inaugurated by Mr. Mostafa Quamrus Sobhan, chair of GSEA Bangladesh and managing director of Dragon Group.
Since its introduction in Bangladesh in 2016, GSEA has recognised university and college students who operate businesses while pursuing their studies. The competition offers participants mentorship, networking opportunities, and a platform to showcase their ventures.
The national champion of GSEA Bangladesh will represent the country at the GSEA Global Finals 2026, competing for a total prize package of USD 100,000, including USD 50,000 for the global first-place winner. The Bangladesh national winner will also receive BDT 10 Lakh as seed support. Applications are open at gsea.org/apply until 15 November 2025. Screening begins in mid-October, followed by semi-finals in December and the Grand Finale in January 2026. The GSEA Global Finals will be held in Cape Town, South Africa, in July 2026, preceded by the South Asia Regional Finals/Global Quarter Finals in India.
Speaking at the launch, EO Bangladesh leaders emphasised the importance of youth empowerment through entrepreneurship. They highlighted GSEA as a platform that fosters innovation, leadership, resilience, and global connectivity among young entrepreneurs.
Distinguished attendees included Ms. Tanazzul Ayman, founder of Spark Infrastructure Ltd. & co-chair, GSEA Bangladesh; Mr. Amer Salim, director, Knit Asia Ltd.; Mr. Kazi Inam Ahmed, director, Gemcon Group; Dr. Salina, deputy director, RISE – BUET; and Dr. Nazmul Hasan, assistant professor, Information Systems, BRAC University.
The launch of GSEA Bangladesh 2025-26 marks a significant step in supporting young entrepreneurs, providing them with opportunities to connect, compete, and contribute to the global entrepreneurial ecosystem.
