Singapore-based start-up Stick ‘Em has been awarded the prestigious US$1m Hult Prize for its innovative approach to expanding access to quality education. The announcement was made at the Global Finals held on 5 September at London’s Tate Modern. Stick ‘Em, founded by students from the National University of Singapore and Singapore University of Technology and Design, impressed judges with its affordable STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and maths) kits and digital platform designed for schools worldwide.
The Hult Prize, an annual competition, challenges student entrepreneurs to develop for-profit businesses that address global challenges. This year, over 200,000 participants from 130 countries submitted nearly 15,000 start-up ideas. Stick ‘Em’s solution stood out for its potential to make experiential learning more accessible, particularly in underserved communities, by combining physical kits with an online platform.
Lori van Dam, CEO of the Hult Prize, highlighted the importance of private sector involvement in solving global issues, stating, “The Hult Prize showcases how for-profit businesses can improve the world and why investors should back more purpose-led start-ups.”
Stick ‘Em was selected from eight global finalists, including ventures like CeluNova, which transforms pineapple waste into raw materials, and EcoPack, which recycles sugarcane waste into biodegradable packaging. The judging panel comprised global leaders in venture capital and sustainability, including Aileen Lee and Piers Linney.
The Hult Prize, funded by the Hult family, has been empowering student entrepreneurs since 2009. Previous winners include Korion Health and Banofi Leather, both of which have made significant strides in their respective fields. The competition continues to inspire young entrepreneurs to create impactful solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
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