--- title: "What to expect during the FTxSDF Challenge" url: https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/newsroom/what-expect-during-ftxsdf-challenge/ --- 1. [HOME](/) 2. [RESOURCES](/content-hub/) 3. [NEWSROOM](/content-hub/newsroom/) 4. WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE FTXSDF CHALLENGE ![What to expect during the FTxSDF Challenge](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/FT_x_SDG_Finals.max-1500x500.jpg) GLOBAL • OTHER ## What to expect during the FTxSDF Challenge Seedstars Global DECEMBER 10, 2021 After almost a decade of organizing the biggest startup competition in the emerging markets, the Seedstars World Competition, it was time for a change. That is how the [FTxSDG Challenge](https://ftxchallenge.com/) powered by Seedstars and Financial Times came to be! For the past six months, our teams have been working to identify the most impact-driven entrepreneurs and ventures creating innovative solutions to tackle six different [UN’s Sustainable Development Goals](https://sdgs.un.org/goals). #### WRITTEN BY ![None](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/seedstars-black.max-376x376.png) Seedstars Global [CONTACT US](/contact-us/) After reviewing over 4,500 applications, more than 2000 candidates from over 90 emerging markets moved to the next stage of the competition. There they had the opportunity to access Investment Readiness Sessions and Seedstars tech perks to become investment ready and prepare for the Bootcamp taking place in December. Only the selected 30 startups will be joining the Bootcamp and have the chance to pitch their solutions for one of the six SDGs in focus. The final week of the Challenge will kick off on December 13th with three live panel discussions on Gender Equality, Climate Action and Quality Education. The next day, December 14th, we will again host three panels on Good Jobs & Economic Growth, Reduced Inequalities, and Good Health & Wellbeing. Each panel will include a number of renowned speakers including global thought-leaders and impact creation experts who’ll discuss how innovation and technology can solve the most critical issues around the world. Check out the topics and the [speakers](https://ftxchallenge.com/ftxseedstars/speakers) of this year’s edition of the FTxSDG Challenge: ## ## Gender Equality The first panel will explore Women in Innovation & Technology. Our speakers will touch upon the challenges women face, as well as the benefits of Women Entrepreneurship and how financial inclusion for women differs from financial inclusion in general. * [ **Silvia Pavon** i](https://www.linkedin.com/in/silvia-pavoni-a4ab3813), Economics editor. The Banker * [ **Astrid de Valon**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/astrid-de-valon-8848b635), Digital Financial Inclusion & Women’s Economic Empowerment – Project Coordinator * [ **Virginia Stagn** i](https://www.linkedin.com/in/virginia-stagni-03a2a965), Business Development Manager, Financial Time ## ## Climate Action Climate change has been a topic of conversation for many years now and after COP26 many are still left with the question: what can we do to make a difference now? Is there untapped potential in innovation that could drive towards net-zero greenhouse gas emissions? Speaking more on this highly relevant topic will be: * Kristen Talman, News Assistant, Moral Money * [ **Daniel Tara** s](https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-taras-56149), Head of Global Sector Program, Climate Economy - GIZ * [ **Caitlin Clarke**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlin-clarke-18419b25), Global Head of Strategy & Growth, Commercial Development, Financial Times * [ **Carolina Zambrano Barragán**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinazambranobarragan), Impact lead, Climate Justice at Hivos ## ## Quality Education Supported by the [School of Management Fribourg (HEG-FR)](https://www.linkedin.com/school/school-of-management-fribourg-heg-fr) The education system has been in need of a re-shuffle for several decades. While certain markets are shifting towards a digital classroom, some are still figuring out how to increase the chances of pupils staying in schools. Inclusive and accessible education is one of the keys to reducing inequalities and achieving sustainable development. The panellists will be discussing how technology and entrepreneurship can help reach this goal. * [ **Teresa Mbagaya**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresambagaya), Principal, Imaginable Futures * Andrew Jack, Global Education Editor, Financial Times * [ **Virginia Stagn** i](https://www.linkedin.com/in/virginia-stagni-03a2a965), Business Development Manager, Financial Times * [ **Mercedes Mateo Diaz**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mercedesmateodiaz), Chief of Education at Inter-American Development Bank ## ## Good Jobs & Economic Growth Economic growth- the favorite topic of politicians around the world. And while economic growth does lead to job creation it does not guarantee better jobs, especially for vulnerable communities. Talking about the importance of financial and digital inclusion and the importance of building the infrastructure for technology and innovation will be: * [ **Oday Kama** l](https://www.linkedin.com/in/oday-kamal-88176b2b), Innovation Consultant World Food Programme * [ **Janina Conboye**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/janina-conboye), Writer & Editor, Work and Careers * [ **Malak El Baba**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/malak-el-baba-6aa72b1b), Country Director, VISA Egypt * [ **Noor Hafe** z](https://www.linkedin.com/in/noor-hafez-93b139167), Business Development Coordinator, FT Talent, Financial Times ## ## Reduced Inequalities We have already touched upon the importance of quality education and good jobs in order to reduce existing inequalities. However, this complex issue needs to be tackled from various standpoints and includes the discussion on the importance of technology in reshaping the economy and closing gaps in incomes, harnessing the positive benefits of migrations and reducing the vulnerability of migrants and much more. Speakers on this topic will be: * [ **Dr. Lara Srivastav** a](https://www.linkedin.com/in/larasrivastava), Digital Development Consultant World Bank * [ **Seth O 'Farrell**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-o-farrell-a1792a14b), Reporter at fDi Magazine, Financial Times * [ **Sandra Boulos**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-boulos-94113b98), Program Officer Migration at the Swiss Agency for development & cooperation ## ## Good Health & Wellbeing Health is often considered one of the most important assets an individual can have. With the news heavily revolving around the topic of the COVID-19 pandemic, many have yet again realized how important health, but also mental and social wellbeing is to the overall quality of life and achieving our fullest potential. So where do technology and innovation come into play? Can we make health more accessible? More on that from: * [ **Amy Lin**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-lin-0b831733), Acting Director at USAID Center for Innovation and Impact * [ **Kristoffer Gandrup Marino**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristoffergandrup), Chief of Innovation - UNICEF * [ **Ebele Mogo**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebelemogo), Strategic Advisor - Good Health & Wellbeing * [ **Noor Hafe** z](https://www.linkedin.com/in/noor-hafez-93b139167), Business Development Coordinator, FT Talent, Financial Times After two of the panel discussions on some of the most burning issues in the emerging markets, the 30 selected startups will have a chance to pitch their innovative solutions to the jury members. On the last day of the challenge, December 17th, six of them will be announced as the FTxSDG Challenge Global Winners and will be accelerated to the Seedstars International Fund where they’ll have the chance to secure up to $500K in funding, will receive access to the Seedstars Growth Program, and a visibility package from the Financial Times. Join us for three days of important discussions and empowering impact-driven entrepreneurs in the emerging markets by registering [here](http://fttalent.ft.com/ftxseedstars/). NEWS / BLOGPOST GLOBAL OTHER ## More like this [ ![None](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/istanbul.max-320x550.jpg) MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA • #### Turkey's founders move from phones to factories Aug. 03, 2026 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/beyond-valley/turkeys-founders-move-from-phones-to-factories/) [ ![None](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/istanbul.max-320x550.jpg) MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA • #### Building a Resilient Tech Ecosystem in the West Bank and Gaza Jun. 09, 2026 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/beyond-valley/building-resilient-tech-ecosystem-west-bank-and-gaza/) [ ![Why Moldova’s best startups look global from day one](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Why_Moldovas_best_startups_look_global_from_.max-320x550.png) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### Why Moldova’s best startups look global from day one Some Moldovan startups register a company in Estonia before they ever talk to an investor. Mar. 23, 2026 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/why-moldovas-best-startups-look-global-from-day-one/) [ ![Building under pressure: how Palestine’s startup ecosystem is learning to scale](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Building_under_pressure_-_how_Palestines_sta.max-320x550.jpg) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### Building under pressure: how Palestine’s startup ecosystem is learning to scale Founders in the West Bank and Gaza build in fragments. Power cuts, travel limits, and blocked payments are part of the job. Out of that reality, a distinct tech scene has taken shape that works lean, tests quickly, and looks outward for growth. Nov. 12, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/palestine-startup-ecosystem-learning-how-to-scale/) [ ![How Morocco is turning steady signals into a real startup story](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/How_Morocco_is_turning_steady_signals_into_a.max-320x550.jpg) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### How Morocco is turning steady signals into a real startup story Morocco’s startup ecosystem is finding its rhythm. After a quiet 2023, founders and investors regained momentum. Startups in the country raised around 70 million USD across 40 deals in 2024 - almost double the previous year, according to Africa: The Oct. 12, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/how-morocco-turning-steady-signals-into-real-startup-story/) [ ![These 12 Jordanian startups are solving problems across the Arab world](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/These_12_Jordanian_startups_are_solving_prob.max-320x550.jpg) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### These 12 Jordanian startups are solving problems across the Arab world Jordan has positioned itself as one of the Middle East's most efficient startup ecosystems. While the Kingdom represents just 3% of the region's population, Jordanian entrepreneurs have achieved remarkable influence across the Middle East. Oct. 03, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/12-jordanian-startups-solving-problems-across-arab-world/) [ ![Six Georgian startups you should know about](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Six_Georgian_startups_you_should_know_about_.max-320x550.jpg) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### Six Georgian startups you should know about Georgia’s tech ecosystem has been growing quietly beyond its early fintech reputation. The small Caucasus nation has built one of Europe’s most business-friendly environments, and it is starting to show. Sep. 17, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/six-georgian-startups-you-should-know-about/) [ ![Azerbaijan's practical approach to building a tech hub](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Azerbaijan_practical_approach_to_building_a_.max-320x550.jpg) ASIA • #### Azerbaijan's practical approach to building a tech hub While Silicon Valley startups chase the next consumer app, Azerbaijan's entrepreneurs are solving a more fundamental problem: building the digital backbone that businesses across the region desperately need to operate. Sep. 04, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/azerbaijan-practical-approach-building-tech-hub/) [ ![Lebanon's startup scene is built for global markets](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Lebanon-startup-scene-is-built-for-global-ma.max-320x550.jpg) ASIA • #### Lebanon's startup scene is built for global markets Lebanon's startup ecosystem operates on a fundamentally different premise than most tech hubs. While entrepreneurs in larger markets might spend years perfecting their domestic strategy, Lebanese founders incorporate abroad and sketch international e Aug. 04, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/lebanon-startup-scene-built-for-global-markets/) [ ![How Armenia built an ecosystem bigger than its borders](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/How_Armenia_built_an_ecosystem_bigger_than_i.max-320x550.jpg) ASIA • #### How Armenia built an ecosystem bigger than its borders Armenia has quietly built one of the region's most sophisticated startup ecosystems. The country's tech diaspora, with deep Silicon Valley roots, gives it an edge that neighboring countries can't easily replicate. Aug. 01, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/armenia-built-an-ecosystem-bigger-than-its-borders/) [ ![How Mongolia's landlocked startup scene is thriving](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Seedstars_Website_-_Life_content_-_Thumbnail.max-320x550.jpg) ASIA • #### How Mongolia's landlocked startup scene is thriving When you think of Mongolia, startup innovation probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But this landlocked country is quietly building something unexpected: a tech ecosystem that's learned to turn geographic constraints into creative advan Jul. 29, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/mongolia-landlocked-startup-scene-thriving/) [ ![Innovation under pressure: How Ukraine’s tech sector defies odds](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/thumbnailukraineblogpost210525.max-320x550.png) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### Innovation under pressure: How Ukraine’s tech sector defies odds Ukraine's tech sector thrives amid challenges, developing resilient solutions that work in any conditions. See how innovation under pressure creates technology the world needs. May. 21, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/innovation-under-pressure-how-ukraines-tech-sector-defies-odds/) [ ![How agricultural innovation is shaping up in Eastern Europe and Central Asia](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/020525THUMBNAIL.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • AGRICULTURE #### How agricultural innovation is shaping up in Eastern Europe and Central Asia Agritech startups in Eastern Europe and Central Asia are transforming farming with local innovations tackling drought, resource limits, and climate change. May. 02, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/how-agricultural-innovation-shaping-eastern-europe-and-central-asia/) [ ![How Egypt is moving from hypergrowth to sustainable innovation](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/lifearticle0404thumbnailphoto.max-320x550.png) MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA • #### How Egypt is moving from hypergrowth to sustainable innovation Egypt's startup ecosystem shifts from hypergrowth to sustainable innovation, with founders focusing on profitability and efficiency amid changing investment standards and government support. Apr. 04, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/how-egypt-is-moving-from-hypergrowth-to-sustainable-nnovation/) [ ![Círculo de Crédito anuncia nueva alianza con Seedstars para fortalecer su brazo de Corporate Venture](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/thumb240325.max-320x550.png) LATIN AMERICA • TECHNOLOGY #### Círculo de Crédito anuncia nueva alianza con Seedstars para fortalecer su brazo de Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) Círculo de Crédito, sociedad de información crediticia líder en México, está impulsando la innovación tecnológica a través de su brazo de Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) para promover la innovación y el desarrollo tecnológico en el ecosistema de conf Mar. 24, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/newsroom/c%C3%ADrculo-de-cr%C3%A9dito-anuncia-nueva-alianza-con-seedstars-para-fortalecer-su-brazo-de-corporate-venture-capital-cvc/) [ ![Meet the startups modernizing Kazakhstan's tech lands](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/THUMBNAILLIFE0703ARTICLELIFE.max-320x550.png) ASIA • #### Meet the startups modernizing Kazakhstan's tech lands Kazakhstan's tech startups are revolutionizing infrastructure and services across the vast country, creating innovative solutions to modernize essential systems despite formidable geographic challenges. Mar. 07, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/meet-startups-modernizing-kazakhstans-tech-lands/) [ ![Tajikistan is building its digital foundations](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/lifearticlethumb270225tajikisatn.max-320x550.png) ASIA • #### Tajikistan is building its digital foundations Tajikistan's entrepreneurs focus on building essential digital infrastructure, transforming access to services in a country where internet reaches just less than half of the population. Feb. 27, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/tajikistan-is-building-its-digital-foundations/) [ ![How Belarusian tech talent is reshaping Eastern Europe's digital future](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/100225lifebelarusarticle.max-320x550.png) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### How Belarusian tech talent is reshaping Eastern Europe's digital future Discover how Belarusian tech companies' migration to Poland and Lithuania is creating new innovation hubs and transforming Eastern Europe's digital landscape with global ambitions. Feb. 10, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/how-belarusian-tech-talent-reshaping-eastern-europes-digital-future/) [ ![How Moldova is building its tech hub](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/thumbnailmoldova070225.max-320x550.png) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### How Moldova is building its tech hub Moldova emerges as a pragmatic tech hub, with local startups solving real-world problems through practical innovation. Learn how its strategic location and incentives are attracting tech talent. Feb. 07, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/cares/how-moldova-building-its-tech-hub/) [ ![Beyond the Valley](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/lifearticle050225thumb.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • #### Beyond the Valley Discover the hidden tech ecosystems of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, where entrepreneurs are building crucial solutions that transform how millions live and work. Feb. 05, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/beyond-valley/) [ ![iGravity and Seedstars Join Forces to Manage the SECO Startup Fund](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/article310125_thumbnail.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • #### iGravity and Seedstars Join Forces to Manage the SECO Startup Fund iGravity and Seedstars are proud to announce their engagement as managers of the SECO Startup Fund (SSF), marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the initiative Jan. 31, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/newsroom/igravity-and-seedstars-join-forces-manage-seco-startup-fund/) [ ![Africa Investment Forum 2024 Market Days: Seedstars Africa Ventures I announces $42m first close](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/article6122thumbnail.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • #### Africa Investment Forum 2024 Market Days: Seedstars Africa Ventures I announces $42m first close Seedstars Africa Ventures I, a venture capital fund making early-stage investments in highly scalable start-ups in Africa, has achieved a first close of $42 million, with participation from the African Development Bank, EIB Global with the support of Dec. 06, 2024 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/newsroom/africa-investment-forum-2024-market-days-seedstars-africa-ventures-i-announces-42m-first-close/) [ ![Seedstars and Visa Foundation announce first cohort of SEED Inclusivity Program supporting entrepren](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/51224_thumbnailphoto.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • #### Seedstars and Visa Foundation announce first cohort of SEED Inclusivity Program supporting entrepreneurs with disabilities in Asia Seedstars and Visa Foundation select 15 innovative disability-focused startups across Asia for SEED Inclusivity Program, supporting entrepreneurs with disabilities and assistive tech. Dec. 05, 2024 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/newsroom/seedstars-and-visa-foundation-announce-first-cohort-seed-inclusivity-program-supporting-entrepreneurs-disabilities-asia/) [ ![Financial Solutions for Migrant Women Report 2024](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/report20241911seedstrarsthumbnail.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • OTHER #### Financial Solutions for Migrant Women Report 2024 With nearly half of the world's 280 million international migrants being women, their financial inclusion represents both a crucial development challenge and a significant market opportunity Nov. 19, 2024 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/insights/financial-solutions-for-migran-women-report-2024/) --- ## Sitemap - [Sitemap](https://www.seedstars.com/sitemap.md): every public page on this site - [llms.txt](https://www.seedstars.com/llms.txt): what Seedstars does and where to start