The Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) has announced the finalists for the prestigious 2025 GEN Compass Awards. Among them is Michelle N. Samuel, founder of SLUDTERA Inc., who has been named a finalist in the Barrier Breaker category. This marks Michelle’s second time as a GEN Compass Awards finalist, having previously been recognised in 2019 in the Ecosystem Champion category.
The Barrier Breaker Award recognises an individual or organisation with outstanding commitment and achievement in creating pathways to entrepreneurship that empower non-traditional audiences and under-represented communities.
“This recognition is not just mine — it belongs to every woman, every young person, and every rural innovator in St. Lucia who dared to believe that entrepreneurship could be their path to change,” said Michelle. “Being named a Barrier Breaker is a reminder that our work matters, and that we must keep opening doors for others.”
Nominees:
Kauffman Foundation
For showing the world that entrepreneurship is for everyone, and it can thrive anywhere. Kauffman’s longstanding and ongoing commitment to Global Entrepreneurship Week has inspired millions of people from all backgrounds, including underrepresented communities, to explore entrepreneurial possibilities.
Michelle Samuel, founder of SLUDTERA Inc.
For her dedication to building a thriving, inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurship ecosystem in Saint Lucia. Through GEN programmes supporting women, youth and rural innovators, her efforts are making entrepreneurship more accessible across the island.
Hello Alice
For its collaborative work with GEN, unlocking equitable access to capital through grants, financial literacy, innovation programs and partnerships.
Antares
For supporting the growth of scalable companies led by historically underrepresented entrepreneurs. The Antares Reach Program awarded $2.5 million to more than 100 companies over two years – and expanded its support through mentorship and community.
FedEx
For reducing barriers amongst military-connected entrepreneurs and founders with disabilities. The FedEx Entrepreneur Fund has awarded over $1.2 million in grants since 2022 and now offers an accelerator enabling entrepreneurs to optimize business growth.
The nominees will be celebrated and the winners revealed during the Compass Awards Ceremony, taking place at the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) in Indianapolis, USA, from June 2–5, 2025 — a global gathering of founders, investors, policymakers, and ecosystem leaders from 200 countries.
About SLUDTERA Inc.
A business development and social impact consulting firm, specializing in fostering sustainable businesses while positively impacting our community. Our customers and clients are small & medium enterprises, companies, community organizations, youth, government and regulatory bodies.
About the GEN Compass Awards
The GEN Compass Awards celebrate excellence in entrepreneurship, policymaking, investing, support programs and research – and honour those who are making a difference in helping entrepreneurs start and scale around the world.