How do I participate in the program?

The program will be run virtually to make sure youth can participate globally. This means you will need a consistent internet connection to participate, one that can support a virtual webinar (hosted on ZOOM) and G-suites. Test your internet connection here. Remember, your public library will often have community internet access (but bring headphones!).

What internet bandwidth do I need for Zoom webinars?

System Requirements for ZOOM include:

• 2.0 Mbps up and down for single screen
• 2.0 Mbps up 4.0 Mbps down for dual screen
• 2.0 Mbps up 6.0 Mbps down for triple screen
• For screen sharing only: 150-300kbps
• For audio VoIP: 60-80kbps

Test your internet connection here.

What regions can participate?

For this competition, only teams working for/within GGGI Member Countries, which are primarily lower-income and middle-income economies, can participate. Those from other countries may apply, however, preference will be given to GGGI Members.

What prizes can I win?

This year, the top three teams who win the Business Plan Competition will win USD$5,000 per team in seed funding to get the initiative started. We will also have bursaries to the 2021 International Student Energy Summit available – a Summit which unites over 650 students from 100+ countries to engage with the world’s energy leaders and innovate for the sustainable energy future. Finally, depending on countries participating, there will also be the potential to collaborate with the Global Green Growth Institute at their country offices.

Do I need to apply in a team?

Yes. We will consider teams with 2 – 5 members, but we recommend teams of 3 – 4 members, with enough people to pool skillsets, but not so many that you spend all your time coordinating schedules. Collaboration is a key component of this accelerator and as it is a condensed accelerator, you will be able to take your idea to a more developed stage by working with a team. We highly encourage teams led by women or with women members to apply!

Do I need experience in entrepreneurship?

Nope! However, we do recommend that you apply with some experience in sustainability or the topic of your idea. This accelerator will be fast-paced, so the more knowledge you have of your community/regional context and the topic you are working with the greater your competitive advantage.

How many hours per week are required?

Each week there will be a one-hour webinar, a task submission, content to read and mentorship meetings. At a minimum, teams should expect to spend around 5 hours per week participating in the program. Teams may spend more time, if they wish, going through ‘dive-deeper’ resources provided online or working on their projects given their personal schedules.