Milken-Penn GSE Education Business Plan Competition 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 Milken-Penn GSE Education Business Plan Competition (EBPC), the world’s leading education business plan competition. The EBPC provides education entrepreneurs with the opportunity to scale their innovative ventures, gain expert mentorship, and connect with a global network of investors and education innovators.

Recognized as the most prestigious and well-funded competition of its kind, the EBPC celebrates ventures that advance teaching and learning through creativity, innovation, and purpose-driven solutions.

Overview

• Competition Type: Education Business Plan Competition
• Eligible Participants: Education entrepreneurs worldwide
• Focus Areas: K–12, Higher Education, Early Childhood, Workforce Learning, AI in Education, Global Education Solutions, and more
• Application Deadline: February 11, 2026
• Competition Timeline:
  • January 14, 2026 – Applications Open
  • February 11, 2026 – Applications Close
  • May 2026 – Semifinalists Announced
  • August 2026 – Finalists Announced
  • Fall 2026 – Live Competition

Who Should Apply

The Milken-Penn GSE Education Business Plan Competition is open to global innovators who are:

• Developing ventures that improve teaching and learning
• Using technology, research, or innovative approaches to address educational challenges
• Focused on creating sustainable, scalable solutions in the education sector

Areas of Focus

Since 2010, the competition has supported ventures in diverse areas, including:

• AI and Emerging Technologies in Education
• Urban Education
• Connecting Research to Practice
• Teaching and Learning Innovations
• Technology Integration in Grades K–12
• Open and Collaborative Education Solutions
• Online and Distance Learning in Higher Education
• Global and Borderless Education Models
• Early Childhood Education
• Workforce Learning and Upskilling

How to Apply

Applicants should follow these steps to submit their application:

1. Prepare your materials – Gather all necessary documents and information required for a strong application, including business plans, financial models, and supporting evidence of impact.
2. Register for Catapult – Create a free Catapult account to access the application portal. This process takes only a few minutes.
3. Submit your application – Complete and submit your application through Catapult’s online platform before the deadline.

The Milken-Penn GSE Education Business Plan Competition 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for education entrepreneurs to gain funding, mentorship, and global recognition for ventures that are shaping the future of learning. Applications close on February 11, 2026.