The 25th Anniversary Edition of GBW Unites Business Leaders from 5 Continents in the Maldives
From July 7 to 15, 2025, the tropical archipelago of the Maldives became the epicentre of global entrepreneurship as it hosted the highly anticipated Global Business Week (GBW) 2025. Marking its 25th anniversary, this prestigious international event drew together over participants from 35 countries, including visionary entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, investors, educators, and young innovators from all generations.
As the sun set over the Indian Ocean, the world witnessed the true power of business diplomacy, innovation, and cross-border collaboration in a week-long celebration of leadership and impact.
A Record-Breaking Edition with Lasting Influence
This year’s Global Business Week broke all previous records in terms of attendance, partnerships, and global reach. Delegations from Asia, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East convened in a spirit of cooperation, addressing some of the most pressing issues in the modern economy—from climate-smart entrepreneurship to AI-driven growth models.
The 2025 edition surpassed expectations in every dimension, proving once again that GBW is more than an event—it is a global movement for change.
Highlights of GBW 2025:
🌍 33-in-1 Format: The Power of Integration
GBW 2025 offered an immersive 33-in-1 business experience, incorporating global business forums, expert panels, networking sessions, think tanks, and wellness events—all designed to expand minds and markets. Topics ranged from sustainable finance and circular economy to neuroleadership and digital transformation, providing a truly 360° business education.
🏆 25th Startup World Cup Championship
One of the week’s most inspirational highlights was the 25th edition of the Startup World Cup Championship, where over 300 startups competed across four age categories—from children to adults. Finalists from 35 countries pitched transformative ideas, from renewable tech to healthcare innovation. Winners walked away not only with global recognition and trophies but also with strategic partnerships and seed investment opportunities.
👨👩👧 Three Generations, One Vision
In a historic moment for GBW, the event successfully brought together three generations of entrepreneurs—youth, professionals, and legacy founders—proving that intergenerational synergy is the future of business sustainability. Forums like “NextGen Leadership” and “Wisdom Transfer: Legacy to Innovation” received standing ovations.
Business Diplomacy & Strategic Alliances
At the Memorandum Signing Ceremony, 7 new strategic agreements were formalised between business clubs, educational institutions, and global corporations. These included cross-continental partnerships between Africa and Europe, Asia and the Middle East, and new collaborative ventures in green tech, edtech, and impact investment.
These agreements ensure that the impact of GBW will ripple outward for years, opening doors to new joint ventures, social impact projects, and regional innovation hubs.
BOSS League Programme: Elite Business Training
The BOSS League Business Programme, designed exclusively for company owners and founders, was once again a standout success. Participants immersed themselves in expert-led sessions, case studies, and strategic planning modules. The programme blended intellectual growth with personal wellness, demonstrating the rising importance of physical intelligence and leadership resilience in high-level business strategy.
Voices from the Event:
“GBW 2025 exceeded every expectation—it reminded us that global entrepreneurship is alive, diverse, and deeply interconnected.”— Dr. Andrew Azarov, Co-Founder, Global Business Week
“We built friendships, launched companies, and found inspiration across borders. This was a week of real magic.”
— Elena Chirich, Head of GBW Australia Delegation
“Our students left the Maldives not only with awards but with a vision to change the world. That’s the power of youth entrepreneurship.”
— Wendy Silinyana, Head of GBW African Delegation
“GBW is more than a venue, it serves as a symbol of harmony between progress and preservation. GBW participants engaged in eco-missions, beach clean-ups, and coral restoration initiatives as part of the “Business for Earth” campaign. These activities reinforced the belief that business leaders must not only drive profit, but also protect the planet.”
— Durga Das, Head of GBW Indian Delegation
The Legacy of 25 Years—and the Future Beyond
GBW 2025 wasn’t just a celebration—it was a launchpad for the next era of global business. With 25 years of impact behind it, GBW is now expanding its global alliance programme, offering year-round engagement through satellite events, virtual think tanks, and the newly launched GDA Academy.
Be Part of the Global Business Movement
As Global Business Week looks to its future, one message is clear: The world is changing, and those who connect, innovate, and collaborate will shape what comes next.
Join the GBW Alliance, explore opportunities to participate, speak, or partner in upcoming regional events, and secure your invitation to Global Business Week 2026.