GEN UK is the national affiliate of the Global Entrepreneurship Network, which seeks to foster deeper cross border collaboration and initiatives between entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, policymakers and entrepreneurial support organizations in order to fuel healthier start and scale ecosystems that create more jobs, educate individuals, accelerate innovation and strengthen economic growth.
Since 2008, GEN UK has celebrated Global Entrepreneurship Week. Through events, workshops and other activities GEW UK has joined entrepreneurs and ecosystem leaders in the United Kingdom to millions people across the world. GEN's network across 200 countries enables us to connect UK organizations with the rest of the world.
GEN UK's programming includes:
LeZero Innovation Prize
A green startup competition launched in 2023 attracts submissions from entrepreneurs in dozens of countries. Hosted Awards ceremony at the University of Birmingham Dubai during COP28. The winner, Drift Energy, receiving mentoring, publicity and funding support from GEN UK throughout the year. Plans are in the works to launch 2024 LeZero Innovation Prize in Spring 2024.
Restart Ukraine
Supports female founders from Ukraine. To date, GEN UK has assisted 200 women entrepreneurs through a cohort-based program that helps them grow their startups. For more information, and to apply, see: Restart Ukraine.
Startup Huddle | UK
GEN UK conducts regular Startup Huddle meet ups in four locations: Edinburgh, Oldham, Oxford, and Manchester. The goal is to launch the successful program in other cities across the UK. For more information, see, Startup Huddle.
Startup Planet
Co-hosted the third conference Mobility Futures Forum with University of Birmingham Dubai at their UAE campus during COP28. Three days of workshops and plenary sessions brought together entrepreneurs, policy makers and investors. The next conference is planned for COP30 (Nov 2025).
Xporter Accelerator
Supports companies intending to grow through exports. Currently 60+ members participate in the free Xporter Lounge that connects founders to consultants and supplier partners. For more information, see: Xporter Accelerator