UN SDGs GOLD MEDAL WINNERS 2025
Startup World Cup Championship, 7–15 July 2025, Maldives
In July 2025, under the bright Maldivian sun and surrounded by the vast Indian Ocean, the 25th anniversary Startup World Cup Championship brought together young entrepreneurs from 35 countries. This global celebration of youth entrepreneurship is not only about business success – it is also about responsibility for the planet and humanity.
That is why, in addition to traditional awards, the Championship introduced a special honour: the UN SDGs Gold Medals – distinctions for teams whose projects best contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the spirit of global partnership.
These medals highlight young teams that dared to look beyond profit and asked a deeper question:
“How can our startup improve the world?”
Below are the 2025 UN SDGs Gold Medal Winners – projects that prove: the next generation is ready not only to dream, but also to act.
No Poverty Medal – Business Discoveries (Turkmenistan)
Goal: No Poverty
Business Discoveries from Turkmenistan was honoured for its work on economic inclusion. Their concept focuses on giving young people and low-income families access to entrepreneurial tools, simple financial education and practical opportunities to launch micro-businesses.
Through workshops, digital tools and mentoring, Business Discoveries helps people turn ideas into income, promoting dignity, self-reliance and long-term economic stability.
No Hunger Medal – Danger Escape (South Africa)
Goal: Zero Hunger
The team Danger Escape from South Africa approached the topic of hunger from an unexpected angle. Their project helps vulnerable communities navigate crises and maintain stable access to food.
Good Health and Well-Being Medal – Magic Notebook (Slovakia)
Goal: Good Health and Well-Being
The Slovak team Magic Notebook created a tool for emotional and mental health, helping teenagers track mood and manage stress.
A Generation That Thinks in SDGs
The UN SDGs Gold Medal Winners 2025 are not just a list of projects – they are a map of global hope. Young teams are already weaving sustainable development principles into their business models.
- Youth understands global problems,
- Youth already has concrete solutions,
- And youth is ready to take responsibility for the future.
These medals are only the beginning. The world will hear more about these innovative startups. #StartupWorldCupChampionship #MiniBossGlobal