The Hinksey Labs
Business Essay Competition
Shifts That Change the Game
Are you a high school student ready to sharpen your research skills, strengthen your business acumen, and think like a strategist?
Choose a company or non-profit that has been - or is likely to be soon - affected by a major change, such as the rise of AI, environmental pressures, market shifts, a change in leadership, or another significant factor, and put its situation under the microscope.
Your Mission
Submit a 1,000-1,500 word case-study essay that includes:
Background
Provide a concise overview of the organisation you selected, including what it does, who it serves, and how it stands out from competitors.
The Shift
Describe the change that happened (or is expected to happen), when it occurred (or may occur), and what caused it.
Impact
Apply relevant business concepts to explain why this change matters. Assess its actual or potential consequences for the organisation, its industry, and the wider economy.
Response
If the organisation has responded, assess that response. If it hasn't responded yet or its response isn't known, suggest what it should do.
Judging Criteria
Essays are evaluated by the Hinksey Labs team of Ivy League and Oxbridge academics, and scored against the following criteria:
Evidence & Sources
Credible data, clearly cited and integrated into the analysis.
Insight & Originality
Fresh perspectives and sharp takeaways beyond the obvious.
Clarity & Structure
Well-organised, concise writing with a logical flow.
Use of Business Concepts
Accurate, relevant, and applied effectively.
Prizes
- 1stplace~$2,000 value
$150 gift card + 100% scholarship to any Hinksey Labs programmeSubject to meeting admission requirements
- 2ndplace~$1,500 value
$50 gift card + 75% scholarship to any Hinksey Labs programmeSubject to meeting admission requirements
- 3rdplace~$1,000 value
50% scholarship to any Hinksey Labs programmeSubject to meeting admission requirements
Official Hinksey Labs certificate of achievement
Priority interview consideration for the upcoming Hinksey Labs cohort
Timeline
Open to high school students (ages 14 - 18) worldwide. Essays must be in English.
Frequently asked questions
Submit your essay
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