The Global Entrepreneurship Network has announced the finalists for the 2025 GEN Compass Awards, a celebration recognizing outstanding achievements in entrepreneurship, policymaking, investment, research, and entrepreneur support programs. The awards honor those making a difference in helping entrepreneurs start and scale around the world.
Nominees will be celebrated and winners will be revealed during the Compass Awards Ceremony, taking place at the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) in Indianapolis, USA — a gathering of founders, investors, policymakers, and ecosystem leaders from 200 countries.
The Barrier Breaker Award recognizes an individual or organization with outstanding commitment and achievement in creating pathways to entrepreneurship that empower non-traditional audiences and under-represented communities.
The nominees in this category are...
Kauffman Foundation
For showing the world that entrepreneurship is for everyone, and it can thrive anywhere. Kauffman’s longstanding and ongoing commitment to Global Entrepreneurship Week has inspired millions of people from all backgrounds, including underrepresented communities, to explore entrepreneurial possibilities.
Michelle Samuel, founder of SLUDTERA Inc.
For her dedication to building a thriving, inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurship ecosystem in St. Lucia. Through GEN programs supporting women, youth and rural innovators, her efforts are making entrepreneurship more accessible across the island.
Hello Alice
For its collaborative work with GEN, unlocking equitable access to capital through grants, financial literacy, innovation programs and partnerships.
Antares
For supporting the growth of scalable companies led by historically underrepresented entrepreneurs. The Antares Reach Program awarded $2.5 million to more than 100 companies over two years - and expanded its support through mentorship and community.
FedEx
For reducing barriers amongst military-connected entrepreneurs and founders with disabilities. The FedEx Entrepreneur Fund has awarded over $1.2 million in grants since 2022 and now offers an accelerator enabling entrepreneurs to optimize business growth.