One of the highlights of the 3-day learning event was the Dragons’ Den business pitch competition, an opportunity for 20 of the most exciting technology-focused entrepreneurs in developing and emerging markets to pitch their innovative business ideas to a panel of 5 judges (the Dragons).  Tasked with awarding cash prizes to only the Top 5, the judges peppered the presenters with questions designed to tease out the good and the bad of each business’s commercial potential, prospects for long-term success and impact on society.

Though only 20 entrepreneurs ‘made the cut’ and were able to pitch at the Forum, a total of 50 entrepreneurs were invited to compete.  Descriptions of each business are included in a profile booklet that was distributed at the Forum – ‘The Dragons’ Den Entrepreneurs Top 50.' Drawn from pools of winners of previous business competitions globally, the companies profiled represent some of the most innovative startups in their respective industries. 

To learn more about the Dragons’ Den, read a recent blog by Gerardo Corrochano, the Director of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Global Practice and one of the Forum’s Dragons.  You can also view videos of the Dragons’ Den competition on the Global Forum website.