Winning team’s “Global Space Startup Summit 2026” impresses judges with innovation and engagement

A team of three students from Singapore Polytechnic’s (SP) Diploma in Integrated Events & Project Management (DEPM) programme has triumphed in the prestigious Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Global Student Competition. Their winning proposal, the Global Space Startup Summit (GSSS) 2026, stood out among 45 international collegiate teams, securing them an all-access scholarship to Convening Leaders 2025 in Houston, Texas.

GSSS 2026 is envisioned as a B2B conference and exhibition that will connect space industry startups, SMEs, policymakers, investors, and educational institutions. The event aims to foster networking, showcase innovations, and attract investment, contributing to Singapore’s growing presence in the space sector.

Innovative Features of GSSS 2026

The SP team’s proposal incorporated cutting-edge technology and experiential design, including:

  • AI-Powered Engagement: Real-time emotion detection AI, in collaboration with MoodMe, to analyze attendee reactions and dynamically adjust event content.
  • Personalized Networking: A sophisticated event app that connects attendees based on shared interests.
  • Gamified Exhibitor Engagement: Interactive marketing initiatives where exhibitors can earn prominent branding opportunities.
  • Sustainability Focus: A carbon footprint calculator for attendees and event elements crafted from repurposed space waste.
  • Immersive Sensory Experience: Space-themed scents, ambient music, AR activities, and interactive projections for a multi-sensory event experience.
  • Wellness Activities: Attendees can participate in island cycling, beach yoga, and stargazing walks on Sentosa Island, where the summit will be held.
  • Engaging Welcome Packs: LEGO surprise boxes allowing participants to create space-themed collectables.
  • Sponsor Showcases: Cutting-edge tech and materials from ST Engineering, Under Armour, L’Oréal, and Garmin.

The students’ victory in this global competition showcases their talent in business event innovation. Team leader Ng Jun Han highlighted how their proposal reflects the evolving landscape of the space industry and business events sector, emphasizing sustainability, digitalization, and immersive attendee experiences.

Lecturer advisor Mrs. Goh-Tan Chor Luan, Senior Specialist in Sustainable Design at SP, commended the team:
“Their proposal demonstrates a deep understanding of the business events landscape and a forward-thinking approach to creating impactful experiences.”

This prestigious win positions Singapore Polytechnic students at the forefront of event management and innovation, strengthening Singapore’s reputation as a hub for business events and the space industry.

Source – SP