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⏰ Nationals Agenda

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The agenda below is designed to give you a clear idea of how the National Competition event will unfold. This schedule may be adjusted depending on the Nationals’ city, number of participating teams and the number of days of the event.

One-Day Nationals’ Competition Event Agenda

Two-Day Nationals’ Competition Event Agenda

For specific information about your Nationals event, reach out to your Startup Point of Contact. Their contact details will be shared with you once you accept your Nationals invitation.

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🗣️ Preliminary Rounds

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The Preliminary Rounds are one of the most important stages of the Nationals competition.During this phase, startups will pitch in designated rooms to a panel of judges. Each startup will have:

• 4 minutes pitch & 4 minutes Q&A
• 2 minutes for judges to provide feedback
• 1–2 minutes for judges to complete scoring

At the end of the session, the top 2 or 3 startups from each room will advance to the National Finals.

• Best Practices for Pitching: </aside>

🏆 Final Round

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The Final Pitches are the highlight of the National competition.

At this stage, the top teams from the Preliminary Rounds present their business ideas to the judges for the final time. This round will determine the final winner of the National competition. Each startup will have:

• 4 minutes pitch & 4 minutes Q&A
• 6-8 finalists will showcase their pitches.
• The finalists use the same presentation decks submitted for the Preliminary round. No edits are allowed.
• Top finalists will be announced one by one in a surprise announcement by the MC.

The finalists will be a secret until announced one by one directly before they’re asked to come up and pitch. All startups must attend the final pitch.

• Deliberation & Callbacks </aside>

🏆 Closing Dinner/ Networking

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The closing dinner isn’t just a celebration of the day’s achievements, it’s a golden opportunity to build meaningful connections. Take this chance to network with fellow participants, judges, and esteemed guests. These conversations could lead to mentorships, partnerships, or even future collaborations that extend far beyond the competition.

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Networking is one of the most valuable benefits of the Hult Prize Nationals. Throughout the event, you’ll have opportunities to connect with others during coffee breaks, team-building activities, and informal gatherings. These moments foster collaboration and idea-sharing, ensuring the impact of the event resonates long after it ends.

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🎤 What to Expect: Unique Sessions and Opportunities

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Alumni Panel

• Hear from former Hult Prize participants who have turned their ideas into impactful ventures.
• Why It Matters: Gain firsthand insights, practical advice, and inspiration from those who’ve walked the same path.
• Takeaway: Learn how to navigate challenges, scale your solution, and create lasting impact. </aside>

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Workshop relevant to Social Entrepreneurship:

• Participate in workshops focused on pitch refinement, design thinking, impact measurement, and scaling strategies.
• Why It Matters: Gain practical tools and knowledge to strengthen your venture.
• Takeaway: Leave with actionable strategies you can implement immediately. </aside>

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Keynote Speaker Session:

• Listen to a prominent entrepreneur, industry leader, or social impact expert share their journey and insights.
• Why It Matters: Discover trends, challenges, and opportunities in social entrepreneurship that can shape your venture.
• Takeaway: Walk away with fresh perspectives and actionable ideas to elevate your solution. </aside>

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Potential cultural activities & field trip

Depending on the host city, you might have the chance to immerse yourself in unique cultural experiences, such as city tours, cultural performances, or even a safari adventure. Past events have included duck boat tours in Boston and visits to Nairobi National Park. These activities offer a refreshing break from the competition, allowing you to explore the local culture, bond with fellow participants, and recharge creatively, so you can return inspired and ready to tackle the next challenge with renewed energy.

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🎥 Venue Guidelines

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By entering the Hult Prize Competition, entrants acknowledge and agree to abide by the Code of Conduct and Terms & Conditions.

🏫 University Entry Instructions

• Upon arrival, you will receive a lanyard and badge during registration.
• Your badge must be worn at all times to access any university buildings.

You’ll receive a lanyard and badge when you arrive & register, Wear this at all times to enter any of the buildings.

‼️ Prohibited Items (Security Policy)

The following items are not permitted on campus:

• Any type of weapon
• Alcoholic beverages

🥼 Dress Code

• Required Attire: Business Formal OR Intentional attire aligned with your startup idea ****(Dress in a way that represents your venture, industry, or brand identity.)
• Not Permitted: Open-toed shoes, Overly casual clothing or Shorts </aside>