What is the objective of the INSEAD COVID-19 Innovation Competition?
The competition aims to help create an optimistic mindset to make the most out of the crisis we are in and support the winning teams turn their ideas into action – Turning a Force Majeure into a Force for Good.
Who is this competition designed for, and who can participate?
This competition is for INSEAD students (20J, 20D) from any campus or location who want to make a positive change to the world, are curious about entrepreneurship and are serious about making something happen about COVID-19.
If you are a current MBA student at INSEAD, you are eligible to participate and compete on a team in the competition.
How do teams work? Are cross-campus teams allowed?
The team size is limited to 2-5 members. If you do not already have a team by the time of registration, worry not! Teams will be formed as part of our ideation workshop.
Are cross-campus teams allowed?
Yes, students from different campuses can team up and join the competition.
Does this cost money?
No. The competition is free of charge due to the tremendous and generous help of our mentors and instructors!
Do I need to be in a team when applying, or can I join as an individual?
You can apply as an individual or as a team. The competition is designed in a way to allow you to find teams to progress to the next phase in the competition
I’m currently not in Singapore or Fontainebleau, can I still participate?
Absolutely! The competition will be entirely online; the only caveat is that we will follow Singapore and Fontainebleau time zones.
Do I need to have a pre-defined idea to be able to participate?
Having an idea before the competition will be helpful but is not required – the competition is designed in a way to help you define an idea and find a team to build the venture.
Are there any limitations to the ideas that can be pitched during this competition?
The only restriction for ideas you can come up with is that they should tackle challenges created by the COVID-19 crisis, its aftermaths or prevent future pandemics from emerging.
How much time will this competition take overall?
The competition is divided into 4 phases:
Phase 1 (Ideation workshop) requires 3.5 hours over three days, plus any additional work you want to invest in your idea.
Phase 2 (Idea Development & Final Video Pitch Submission) will take at least 6 hours, 2 of which will be mentoring sessions – Phase 2 will take place during the P2/3 break for 20Ds, and therefore you should have enough time to invest!
Phase 3 (Live Finals) will take place on the 22nd of May via Zoom
How will the interactions be managed?
Due to the various restrictions on individual movement and social interaction, all interactions will be via Zoom.
How many participants will get into the finals?
The competition is designed to allow up to 15 teams to enter the finals.
When will the winners be announced?
The winners of the competition will be announced at the end of Phase 3 live finals on 22 May, 2020.
A jury of experienced entrepreneurs and VC managers will assess the teams based on specific criteria – see here – to announce the 1st and 2nd place as well as the social impact winner.
What will happen after the competition?
One of the core objectives is to help INSEAD teams to turn their ideas into action.
I have more questions.
If you have more questions, write to us at [email protected]