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20 Under 20

The competition is currently on pause. Watch this space for updates.
20 Under 20 logo

A generation of innovators

Starting a business and expanding it internationally is challenging at any age. That’s why Wise is supporting talented young founders from across Europe. For 5 years now, we’ve been championing budding business leaders so that they can thrive and grow.

Whether you've launched an app, sell physical products or offer services, we want to hear from you.

20 Under 20 competition is for all founders aged 16-19 in Europe.

In addition to one or more overall winners, 20 Under 20 nominates founders for special awards in 3 categories:

  • EdTech or educational startup
  • GreenTech or sustainability company
  • Social enterprise
20 Under 20 logo

Star panel of entrepreneurs, investors and advisers.

The finalists are selected by a

Read the terms here.

Young entrepreneurs competition 20 Under 20

Meet the judges

Taavet Hinrikus

Taavet Hinrikus

Wise co-founder and 20 Under 20 Chairman

Kersti Kaljulaid

Kersti Kaljulaid

President of Estonia 2016-2021 and UN Secretary-General's Global Advocate for 'Every Woman Every Child'

Terri Duhon

Terri Duhon

NED and Risk Chair, Morgan Stanley International and Independent Non-Executive Director, Wise

Nadia Costanzo

Nadia Costanzo

Head of Banking for MEA and Latin America, Wise

Roxanne Varza

Roxanne Varza

Director of STATION F, co-founder of StarHer and Tech.eu

Ida Johansson

Ida Johansson

Founder of Turn Consulting and winner of the Wise 20 Under 20 2021

“Being a 20 Under 20 winner is an enviable achievement for any entrepreneur, a recognition that Wise very carefully hands out to young individuals and businesses excelling or with great potential. We greatly appreciate that a larger business such as Wise can go out of their way to support young founders and take time to help them succeed in building a better world. FOSSA and I greatly appreciate the prize, and the financial boost which is very complicated to find for early-stage projects.”

Julian Fernandez, founder of FOSSA Systems and winner of the Wise 20 Under 20 2022

20 Under 20 winner Julian Fernandez

"It's such an honor, not only to be selected as the winner of 20 Under 20 by the experienced judges, but also to be a part of this magnificent group of impact makers. Wise encourages us young entrepreneurs to believe in our dreams. With help from this award, Turn Consulting can continue to develop its platform to help more young people get into working life so they too can reach their full potential. That is the biggest win of all!”

Ida Johansson, founder of Turn Consulting and winner of the Wise 20 Under 20 2021

20 Under 20 winner Ida Johansson