World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) Urban Innovation Challenge 2018
Deadline: August 15, 2018
Applications are open for the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) Urban Innovation Challenge for Citipreneurs 2018. The Urban Innovation Challenge is a young SDGs start-up competition in Seoul for prospective entrepreneurs from around the world interested in solving urban issues in Seoul and achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) will co-host the challenge with UN ESCAP, UNDP, WeGO, Seoul Metropolitan Government, Seoul Digital Foundation. In collaboration with Seoul City, this year’s themes will revolve around Green Energy, Urban Mobility and Social Protection.
Program Overview
Three different workshop and consulting sessions – Seoul Challenge Workshop, Start-up Expert Consultation, Investor Roundtable and Pitch Clinic – will be held throughout June-September in order to provide opportunities for growth. The workshops and consulting sessions provide a chance to hear from city experts and explore upcoming urban challenges. It is also full of opportunities to fill the most essential needs of start-ups through mentoring sessions focusing on different fields of expertise, followed by pitching clinic sessions for both global and domestic VCs.
Through the dual-track system, participants will apply in two distinct tracks: The Seed Track and the Growth track. The Seed Track is designed for early stage start-ups looking for validation of their ventures. These start-ups have much more flexibility to focus on urban issues specifically identified by partnering Seoul City agencies. Start-ups of three or more years and market-tested prototypes will participate and pitch on the Growth track.
Total 30 teams will be selected to participate in the main challenge. The main challenge will feature plenary sessions of welcome and keynote speeches, demonstrations and pitches to judges, and a closing gala announcing the winners. The event will also include VIP Leaders’ Breakfast Meeting and Policy Dialogue.
Eligibility
- Open to prospective entrepreneurs from around the world interested in solving urban issues in Seoul and achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Application