Applications are now open for the seventh edition of Global Grad Show, which returns with its programme for university graduates whose research tackles social and environmental issues.

A key feature of Dubai Design Week, Global Grad Show was launched in 2015 as an exhibition of impact-driven innovation, and currently engages academics in over 60 countries and 300 institutions, in fields ranging from biomedical engineering to urban design and data sciences through free and open participation. Year-round activations support graduates and professors through international promotion, knowledge exchange and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Whether working on high-tech or low-tech projects, university students from all disciplines, institutions and countries are encouraged to apply on the Global Grad Show website, providing a brief description of the solution and the problem it addresses.

2021 programme

  • Chosen based on inventive problem solving and tech driven results, 100 of the best innovations will be selected and featured in a unique virtual exhibition, promoted through a global media campaign and dedicated content distributed through digital channels.
  • CATCHER by Liye Zhang and Yi Yang, Politecnico di Milano. Global Grad Show, 2020
  • Robust Nest by Fabien Roy, ECAL, Global Grad Show, 2020
  • Every submission will be invited to take part in the multi-phased entrepreneurship programme, dedicated to graduates who want to take their projects to market, including startup-building training, mentorship and the opportunity to pitch for A.R.M. Holding AED 10 million Fund for startups.
  • The Progress Prize will award $10,000 to an outstanding project from this year’s submissions, selected by an independent jury.
  • University students in the Middle East and North Africa applying for Global Grad Show will also have the chance to attend and showcase their projects in the MENA Grad Show, a physical exhibition held during Dubai Design Week.

    • Deadline to submit applications is Tuesday 10 August, 2021. For more information on the open call, click here.