Frequently Asked Questions
About GS and Sponsors
Who is the GS Group?
GS Group is one of the world’s most diverse conglomerates headquartered in Seoul, Korea, with a global reach in the US, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. In 2005, GS separated from LG Corp to focus on growing leading global businesses in Energy, Oil & Gas, Retail & Commerce, and Construction. Today, GS group has over USD $62 billion worth of assets, 160+ subsidiaries, and annual revenues of over USD $50 billion.
GS Group’s energy related companies represent one of the largest diversified energy groups in the world which includes leading operations in refining and energy retail. GS Energy and its subsidiaries such as GS Caltex operate the largest 800k bpd refinery in the world and 3000+ gas stations and service centers. The Group’s energy companies also own and operate 5GW of CCGT, 200MW of biomass power, 90MW of wind power; and a 4mt/y LNG terminal. For more information, visit gs.co.kr/en.
Who is GS Beyond?
GS Beyond is the open innovation arm of GS Group, focused on identifying and fostering innovation across various industries: energy and power, retail and commerce, and engineering and construction. Based in Silicon Valley, GS Beyond builds partnerships with companies developing cutting edge technology and innovative ideas that will change the world in positive, sustainable ways. For more information, visit gsbeyond.com.
Who is GS Futures?
GS Futures is also based in Silicon Valley as the venture capital arm of the GS Group of South Korea investing in the future of energy, construction, and retail. For more information, visit www.gsfutures.vc.
Who is Energy Transitions Ventures?
Energy Transition Ventures Energy Transition Ventures LLC is a venture capital fund manager headquartered in Houston, Texas, investing in early-stage startups that benefit from or drive the energy transition. For more information, visit www.energytransitionventures.com.
Who is Cleantech.org?
CleanTech.org is the leading portal for energy & environmental technology commercialization. Their mandate is to be the access point for the growing number of individuals and companies involved in the sector. They seek to allow these participants to develop networks with each other, and to access information and resources to facilitate commercialization of clean technologies through an interactive experience. For more information, visit http://www.cleantech.org/
Join the discussion on this competition at Cleantech.org
Applications & Eligibility
Who is eligible to apply for the GS Beyond Energy Innovation challenge?
Learn more about application materials on our Apply page.
Is there an entry fee for the challenge?
There is no entry fee. It is free to apply.
What materials are required for the application?
Learn more about application materials on our Apply page.
When does the application period open and close?
The 2021 application period opens on April 22, 2021, and closes when the top candidates are selected.
What are the conditions of the $100,000 prize?
The $100k cash prize will be available for use as reward funds for the winning startup with the most innovative product and business model. It is free from any strings, deliverables, and equity. This is an opportunity to pitch to the smartest investors in energy and compete for startup funding and support.
Can we save our application prior to submitting and complete it at a later time?
No, the application must be completed in one sitting. We recommend writing all responses in a separate document, then copying them into the application form when you are ready to submit. Download this PDF of the application to review before submitting.
Is it possible to edit my application after it has been submitted?
Email team@gsbeyondenergy.com if you need to correct or supply any additional information. No changes or updates to an application will be accepted after the applications close.
Judging & Selection
How will judges assess my application?
View our Apply Now page for more information. Evaluations will be made at the sole discretion of GS Beyond, the GS Group sponsors, and the judging panel.
Will semifinalists be announced?
Yes, semifinalists will be announced in Spring 2021. Check the Key Dates for more details.
When will finalists be announced?
Finalists will be announced in Summer 2021.
Are there any requirements if I am selected as a finalist?
Finalists will compete at the GS Beyond Energy Innovation Challenge Virtual Pitch Day on July 21, 2021.
Awards
What prizes can I win at the GS Beyond Energy Innovation Challenge Finals?
The top prize is $100,000 to the most innovative product and business model. The top three startups will be considered for a pilot project with GS Group. The top six startups will have one-on-one mentorship and coaching from Energy Transition Ventures, GS Beyond, GS Futures, investors, and industry experts.
How do I sign-up for invitations to Demo Day?
Contact us here.
Other questions? Email team@gsbeyondenergy.com