Frequently asked questions
What is the Stanford Social Impact Entrepreneurship Competition?
It's a pitch competition at Stanford for student founders building ventures with a social or environmental mission. The 2027 competition is presented by Stanford ASES and Stanford SENSA, with support from Hillel at Stanford.
Who can apply?
Teams of one to three people with at least one current full-time college or university student. Other members can be students or recent graduates. Ventures at any stage and of any model are welcome.
Do I need to be a Stanford student?
No. The 2027 competition is open to student founders from colleges and universities around the world.
Do I need to be Jewish to apply?
No. The competition is grounded in the Jewish value of tikkun olam, repairing the world, and is open to students of every background and faith.
When is the deadline?
Applications are due February 1, 2027 at 11:59 pm Pacific. The 12 finalists are announced on February 12, and the finals are at Stanford on March 8, 2027.
How does finals day work?
The 12 finalists are split into three groups of four, and each group pitches to its own panel of judges. The winner of each group then pitches to everyone in a final round, where the judges rank them first, second and third. Everyone else places 4th to 6th, 7th to 9th or 10th to 12th, by where they finished in their group.
How many finalists are there?
Twelve. Every applicant hears from us by email on February 12.
What are the prizes this year?
Prizes are awarded by placement: 1st, 2nd and 3rd, then 4th to 6th, 7th to 9th and 10th to 12th. The 2027 amounts will be announced soon. Last year, the winning venture received $30,000 and a one-on-one session with Daniel Lubetzky, founder of KIND.
What do I need to submit?
A few short answers about your venture, your business plan, and an optional 1-minute video. You can also attach a deck, financials, survey data or press.
How are applications judged?
Judges score every application against a published rubric, so you can see exactly what they're looking for before you apply.
What makes a strong business plan?
A clear problem, evidence that it matters to the people you serve, your solution and why it will work, a realistic model and budget, your team, and how you'll measure impact.
My idea is early. Should I still apply?
Yes. Judges look at impact, feasibility and originality, not revenue. Early ventures with strong thinking behind them do well.
Can my venture already be launched or funded?
Yes. Ventures at every stage can apply, including ones that already have users, revenue or outside funding.
Does the prize take equity?
No. Prize money is not an investment, and the competition takes no equity in your venture.
Does my venture need to be incorporated?
Not to apply. Winning teams need to be incorporated to receive prize funds, and can incorporate after the competition.
Who sees my application?
Only the organizing team. Your application and files are private, and other applicants can't see them.
Are the finals in person?
Yes. Finalists pitch live at Stanford on March 8, 2027.
I have an idea but no team. Can you help?
Yes. Tick "help me find teammates" in the application, or contact the team, and we'll try to connect you with students looking to join a venture.
How can I judge or sponsor?
We'd love to hear from you. Use Contact the team and choose judging or sponsoring.
Apply by February 1
Applications close February 1, 2027 at 11:59 pm Pacific, and are open to students at any university.
Questions first? Read the FAQ