EVERY YOUNG PERSON HAS DREAMS … BUT TOO FEW TURN THEIR DREAMS INTO REALITY
The GI Challenge was founded in response to rising youth unemployment on the Sunshine Coast. The community answered the call, recognising the need to create new pathways and opportunities for young people in an increasingly complex world.
The impact that Generation Innovation has had over the past 9 years is the result of an entire community’s response – from the schools who promote it and the parents who encourage their children to participate, to the countless individuals and businesses who so willingly share their time, experience, connections and funds.
The GI Challenge shapes young people’s lives. Not only does it give them a unique opportunity to develop their own business, it builds resilience by instilling in them confidence and self-belief that anything’s possible.
How The GI Challenge works
The GI Challenge connects young entrepreneurs with the marketplace in a unique way, discovering a new generation of business founders from the Sunshine Coast and Noosa by blending traditional and innovative methods.
APPLICATION
Young entrepreneurs who have an idea and the commitment it takes to see the program through apply for the GI Challenge. All eligible applicants receive feedback.
Originate
Selected entrepreneurs attend the Originate Day and 2 Bootcamps to develop and refine their idea with the support of mentors and business leaders.
Polish
Entrepreneurs finalise their concept and work with the GI team, their mentors and specialists to prepare their presentation and pitch for shortlisting.
Shortlisting
Entrepreneurs present their ventures to a panel and audience of family, friends and fellow entrepreneurs, hoping to secure their place as one of the three finalists.
VENTURE Video
The three finalists work with GI’s videographer Reflected Image PRoductions to develop their videos, which are showcased at the Pitch Night and help to decide the winner.
Pitch Night
The three finalists pitch, present their video and do a Q&A with a judging panel of business leaders and an audience of family, friends, fellow entrepreneurs and the business community.