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 Research Champion Award recognizes a GEN Research community member that has produced actionable research resulting in better-informed policies or programs advancing entrepreneurship.
The nominees in this category are...
Erik Stam, Professor at Utrecht University and Stellenbosch University
For groundbreaking research defining entrepreneurial ecosystems and systemic conditions enabling productive entrepreneurship. His insights and measurement tools have driven the creation of Africa’s first entrepreneurial index.
David Audretsch, Ameritech Chair of Economic Development at Indiana University
For decades of pioneering research that bridges entrepreneurship and policy. His work has shaped global strategies, empowering governments to foster entrepreneurial ecosystems and drive innovation-led economic growth through powerful frameworks and initiatives.
Sameeksha Desai, Director of the Manufacturing Policy Initiative at Indiana University
For advancing inclusive economic development through actionable research on entrepreneurship. Her peer-applauded work equips policymakers with tools to measure ecosystems, design equitable support programs, and foster resilient, innovation-driven economies globally.
David Hsu, Richard A. Sapp Professor at the Wharton School
For pioneering research on entrepreneurship and innovation strategies. His insights on venture scaling, academic commercialization and ecosystem development have guided policymakers and entrepreneurs in fostering innovation, scaling startups and building resilient ecosystems.
Scott Shane, A. Malachi Mixon III Professor at Case Western Reserve University
For transformative research advocating targeted support for high-growth ventures. His research on university spinoffs, entrepreneurial ecosystems, and innovation strategies have guided policymakers in fostering impactful entrepreneurship and resilient economic development.