The Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) Initiative is launching a brand new resource for entrepreneurs seeking mentorship opportunities on October 30, 2017. GIST Mentor Match is an online portal that connects potential mentors with founders, creating mentorships based on the specific needs of a startup and the specific strengths of a mentor.

In anticipation of the 2017 Global Entrepreneurship Summit, GIST has been working to create a pool of startup mentors from around the world that specialize in everything from raising capital to branding and marketing. Mentors on the portal are focused on five industries: Energy and Infrastructure; Financial Technology and Digital Economy; Health and Life Sciences; Media and Entertainment; and Women’s Empowerment. These mentors are participating in the portal because they want to use their knowledge and skills to empower the next generation of global entrepreneurs and startups.

Through the GIST Mentor Match portal, entrepreneurs can find a mentor that best fits their needs by using the comprehensive search options in the portal. Searches can be customized based on location, industry and even the needs of a startup. Once a mentor is found, entrepreneurs can request a mentorship match. If the mentor accepts, a mentor match is made. The mentorship can then continue through the messaging service offered by the portal, or go offline to better fit the needs of mentor and mentee.

If you are interested in joining the global portal and finding your mentor match, follow this link. In order to use the portal, an interested entrepreneur will need to register on GIST Network and opt into the GIST Mentor Match portal. Registration will include providing specific details about yourself, your startup and your mentorship needs. The portal is free to anyone interested in finding a mentor who can help them launch a startup or scale into a new market.

Young entrepreneurs face many different challenges as they turn their ideas into reality. But with the support and guidance of a mentor, these innovators can create startups that succeed. The GIST Mentor Match portal serves as a catalyst for these young entrepreneurs, breaking some of the barriers that stand in the way of founders hoping to create successful startups.

Photo Credit: Flickr | Perzon Seo