Imagine being a student, researcher, or curious thinker with a big idea about the future of the world economy—and having a shot to present it on a global stage, backed by one of the most powerful hedge funds in history.
That’s exactly what’s on offer right now.
Bridgewater Associates, the iconic investment firm known for its analytical approach to global finance, is teaming up with Global Citizen, a leading international advocacy group, to launch a new international competition: Forecasting the Future: A Modern Economics Challenge.
Why This Challenge Matters Now More Than Ever
The world is going through a dramatic economic shift.
For decades, globalization ruled the game. But now, the rules are changing.
Countries are pulling back, focusing inward, and rewriting trade policies in a move Bridgewater is calling Modern Mercantilism—a world driven by protectionism, nationalism, and rapidly evolving technologies like artificial intelligence.
Bridgewater believes this is one of the most important economic transformations of our time, and they’re opening the door for fresh minds from all corners of the world to weigh in.
What Participants Are Being Asked to Do
The challenge is open to people from around the globe, with a simple but bold request: submit your predictions on how this new era of economic change will unfold.
Who will rise? Who will struggle? What sectors or countries are most vulnerable—or best positioned?
Entrants are expected to dive deep into the effects of shifting global trade, political alliances, and technological breakthroughs.
The goal is to forecast not only what’s coming, but also what governments, businesses, and communities should be doing to prepare.
What’s in It for the Winners?
It’s not just about prestige. The top 100 entries will be shortlisted based on the strength and originality of their economic forecasts.
From there, Bridgewater’s own senior investors will pick the final five winners.
Each of those five will receive $25,000 and, just as exciting, a potential internship or job offer at Bridgewater Associates, provided they pass the usual interview process.
That’s a major career opportunity with one of the most elite firms in global finance.
A Word From the People Behind It
Bridgewater CEO Nir Bar Dea described the initiative as more than just a competition—it’s about opening up the floor to bold thinkers, no matter where they come from.
“We’re living through one of the biggest economic shifts of our lifetimes,” he said.
“We want the best ideas, from anywhere in the world, to help us understand and navigate what’s coming next.”
Global Citizen’s CEO Hugh Evans echoed that call, emphasizing the importance of fresh perspectives.
“The world is entering a new era,” he said, “and bold, data-driven ideas are what we need to tackle the changes that could affect the most vulnerable communities.”
Building on a Growing Partnership
This isn’t the first time these two powerhouse organizations have teamed up.
Last year, Bridgewater and Global Citizen collaborated on a report supporting the World Bank’s IDA21 initiative, which helped secure a record-setting $100 billion in funding commitments.
This new challenge is the next step in that partnership—one that not only tackles today’s economic challenges but aims to unlock tomorrow’s solutions.
Here’s How to Get Involved
If you’re interested in participating, you’ll find all the details—including the submission guidelines and judging criteria—on the challenge’s official website.
The deadline to apply is August 1, 2025, so there’s time to dive into research and develop a meaningful, well-supported forecast.
About the Organizers
Global Citizen is a nonprofit that’s been fighting to end extreme poverty since 2008.
With a global presence and a massive activist network, the organization has helped direct over $49 billion in funding toward causes that have impacted more than 1.3 billion lives.
Bridgewater Associates, founded in 1975, is one of the world’s most respected asset management firms.
Known for its culture of radical transparency and data-driven decision-making, the firm manages billions for institutional clients and consistently seeks to understand how global markets work at the most fundamental level.
One Big Idea Could Change Everything
Whether you’re a student with a passion for economics or an experienced thinker with a fresh take, Forecasting the Future offers a rare chance to make your voice heard—on a global stage, in front of some of the brightest minds in finance and policy.
The next breakthrough idea might just come from you.