Start-Up Challenge

The Start-Up Challenge promotes and supports youth-led projects that foster innovation and digital transformation in the Americas. Open to young people aged 18 to 34, the competition identifies innovative solutions that further new technologies with social impact, building a resilient future alongside this new generation.

The Start-Up Challenge is a special category of the Talent and Innovation Competitions of the Americas Program (TIC Americas), in the Entrepreneurship for Action component toward the VII Young Americas Forum at the X Summit of the Americas, to be held in the Dominican Republic in 2025.

Registration







Categories

Innovation and Development

Business models that respond to strengthening industries using innovation as a vehicle for socioeconomic growth by promoting financial inclusion, human capital, and sustainable business practices that advance equal opportunities and equitable access to resources.

Digital Transformation, Connectivity, and Emerging Technologies

Business models capable of accelerating and adopting digital transformation by developing solutions based on Artificial Intelligence, emerging and sustainable technologies, as well as the efficient use of digital innovation tools to boost local economies.

Cross-Cutting Themes

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Expatriates

Engaging expatriate entrepreneurs to enhance human capital, business platforms, and investment opportunities that drive innovation and entrepreneurial investment in the hemisphere.

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Sustainable Development

Innovative solutions that directly impact the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the UN Pact for the Future.

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Gender Equality

Initiatives focused on reducing the gender gap, enabling full and equal participation and leadership for women, allowing them to achieve full economic autonomy.

Timeline

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Opening for Registrations

January 15, 2025

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Registrations deadline

April 15, 2025

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Submission of materials

May 15, 2025

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Evaluations


May–June 2025

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Announcement of Finalists

June 2025

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Finals and Awards Ceremony

August 2025

Free resources, training and support for young entrepreneurs on business plan development, financial viability, marketing strategies, planning and management, finances, and much more.