The 3rd edition · 2026
Global Startup
Coach Award
This award was created to honor the dedication and impact of the coaches who quietly yet powerfully drive startup growth from behind the scenes.
2025
Global Startup Coach Award 2025
We know that coaches are fundamental to startup development. They are a pivotal part in guiding founders to reach their full potential. Unlike mentoring, coaching doesn’t focus on telling you what to do or giving you advice. Instead, coaching fosters independent thinking. It is often this shift in mindset, that adds to the transformative growth in founders and startups.
Who should apply?
- Coaches involved in startup development
- Professionals from other backgrounds with transferrable skills
- Coaches with versatile experience across various sectors
- Individuals passionate about startup development and impact
- Individuals transitioning from mentoring to coaching
24-week programme
- Step 1
Screening
After reviewing all applications, we will select 20 coaches based on criteria such as coaching qualifications, experience with startup coaching, EdTech and business background, and coaching competencies.
- Step 2
Diagnosis and Objective Setting
Each coach will be matched with a pre-selected startup. Based on an intensive diagnosis of the startup, the coach will outline key objectives for acceleration to help the startup achieve its unique mission.
- Step 3
Acceleration: Weekly Coaching Sessions
Each coach conducts weekly 90-minute coaching sessions with their assigned startup and completes a coaching report after each session.
Process
- Applications closed
- Diagnosis (4 weeks)
- Acceleration (20 weeks)
- Award ceremony at Bett UK 2026
PrizeA total cash prize of $200,000, split between our 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners.
2024
EdTech Startup Coach Award 2024 (ESCA, now GSCA)
