Day 1 of Digital Universities Asia 2025 will conclude with the grand final of our Start-up Competition. The goal is to discover the most promising pre-seed edtech start-ups in the digital learning space, focused on introducing innovative solutions and tackling key challenges within the higher education community.

Entries will be judged by Times Higher Education, Lingnan University and our expert panel of edtech investors. 

The 10 shortlisted start-ups will have the opportunity to join us at Digital Universities Asia, where five finalists will be invited to pitch their products or innovations on stage during a special session on 8 July. Additionally, these top five will participate in a dynamic panel discussion on day 2, sharing their insights and engaging in thought-provoking conversations about the future of learning.

The winner will be interviewed by a Times Higher Education journalist and have their story showcased to our global digital audience.

*** Entries are now closed ***

10 shortlisted start-ups will be contacted on or before 2 May

5 finalists will be announced on or before 16 May

For all five finalists

• Two exclusive tickets to attend Digital Universities Asia
• Prominent branding across the event's digital channels
• A 3-minute pitch opportunity in front of our expert judging panel
• The chance to participate in a engaging panel discussion on day 2 of the event on 9 July
  
  

The competition winner will receive:

• An invitation to speak at Digital Universities Asia 2026
• A post-event write-up for the content hub on Times Higher Education's digital Campus platform