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Intel Global Challenge: So... What's the Big Deal?

Linda_Qian
Employee
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This blog was posted on behalf of Manav Subodh, Intel's Global Entrepreneurship Program Manager.

This year marks the 7th annual Intel Global Challenge at UC Berkeley (formerly IBTEC, the Intel+UC Berkeley Technology Entrepreneurship Challenge), which seeks to support and promote entrepreneurship around the world. 30 teams from more than 20 countries will come together on November 7-10 at UC Berkeley with hopes of winning the prestigious Intel Global Challenge at UC Berkeley.

Last year when I wrote a blog about the Intel Global Challenge, I got 2 very useful comments from my friends, Ananda and Chetan on facebook that asked me a very fundamental question "What's the Big Deal?"

So, what makes the Intel Global Challenge at UC Berkeley a big deal? Here's my top 7 list...

1) It is a premier global technology business plan competition focused on students.

2) The students participating get real experience developing technology innovations, creating a business plan, and pitching to actual VCs (including Intel Capital).

3) Over the last 7 years the Challenge has expanded across the globe and today reaches more than 2000 students in 50+ countries.

4) Teams compete for $100,000 in seed money, including a first prize of $50,000.

5) A few winners are selected to go to the annual Intel Capital Global summit where they can network and learn from experienced entrepreneurs and VCs.

6) Many of the past winners have started successful businesses. These folks are now creating jobs, bringing new technologies to market and creating economic growth.

7) All of the participants gain experience identifying problems and developing innovative solutions. These are lifelong skills that are critical in today's workplace and will serve them well throughout their careers.

And here is what the last few years participants feel on what makes it a big deal:

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That's why I am so excited that we are kicking it off this week. Do you agree this is a "Big Deal"?
About the Author
Linda is passionate about sustainability and corporate responsibility. She manages communications for Intel's Public Affairs and Sustainability organization. She graduated from the UC Berkeley College of Natural Resources with a Bachelor of Science in Conservation and Resource Studies.