This coming May 3-5, 2024, the University of San Diego and the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies will host The Fowler Global Social Innovation Challenge, a global pitch competition that encourages students to develop ventures that address social and environmental challenges. The competition is open to college and university students from around the world who are passionate about creating positive change. All competing ventures are rooted in one or multiple of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. 

The Fowler GSIC inspires student social entrepreneurs around the world to connect and create business solutions that address social and environmental challenges. Since 2011, we’ve connected more than 3,000 students from more than 25 countries around the world - including Australia, South Korea, Rwanda, The Philippines, Ghana, Mexico, and Peru - recognizing their outstanding social ventures based on positive impact and financial sustainability. To date, we’ve distributed more than $700,000 in funding and in kind-services, to seed the most innovative and promising global ventures.

USD will have two student teams competing in the competition, and we are currently recruiting student ventures from institutions around the world to be a part of the Global Finals. If you know of student social entrepreneurs from other institutions who are developing a venture that addresses a social or environmental challenge, send them the General Application today. Our goal is to convene the most promising and inspiring student social entrepreneurs from across the globe, provide the opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas, and connect with global, impact-focused peers.