“The VT KnowledgeWorks Global Challenge was a phenomenal experience for our team and our business.  This competition motivated us to push forward our venture during the months leading up to the event, and discover its potential.  While in Virginia, we were provided with valuable mentorship from a partner company, as well as peer mentorship from our fellow participants.  We learned about entrepreneurship around the globe, and felt privileged to be part of an incredible community of leaders.  It was a unique, once in a life-time opportunity, and we are extremely grateful to have been a part of it.  I am sure this was an amazing stepping stone in the careers of all participants, and we are curious and excited to see how each of these teams and leaders progress into the future.  Best of luck to all participants, and thank you to the entire VTKW team, our host families/companies, and everyone involved for your gracious support!”

Annelies Tjebbes & Mayank Kalra from VersiCool at the University of British Columbia, Canada, Winners of the 2012 Global Student Challenge
 

“VT KnowledgeWorks Global Challenge provided us tools for improving our business model and giving us the chance to receive feedback, which was key for our success. The competition was very challenging, facing high potential teams with awesome ideas. We also enjoyed all the recreational activities and the time spent with our host families, which was the best way to relax throughout the week. The Global Challenge was more to us than just winning the $25,000 grand prize; it was an excellent networking opportunity to build our international partnerships with local companies and to make friends from different cultures.

Are you ready to compete with high potential startups and have a lot of fun in the beautiful town of Blacksburg? If your answer is yes then it’s your turn to take the Challenge.”

Matias Rojas, Andrés Testón, Mauricio Ulloa & Guillermo Vargas, Team Kimeltu from Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, Winners of the 2011 Global Student Challenge
 

"The Global Challenge provided our business with an opportunity like no other. Having been involved with business competitions locally, the Global Challenge provided us with a forum to really develop our business and a platform to do so on a global level. The support we received from VT KnowledgeWorks was incredible and a real testament to the hard working, dedicated and knowledgeable staff there. The Global Challenge provided us with an opportunity to network with students and business leaders from across the world, this has helped us develop our business but also helped strengthen our personal network. The Global Challenge is a world class event, hosted by experts and we could not recommend it highly enough." 

Vincent Murray & Colm Connolly, Team Ecosy, Winners of the 2010 Global Student Challenge