Calling all “tech for good” startups! Cisco’s 6th edition of its Global Problem Solver Challenge is open for applications. Startups using technology to benefit society or the planet can apply until February 11, 2022 and win up to $250,000 in prize money.
Can startups solve the social and environmental problems governments seem unable to fix themselves? Cisco is only one the corporates which thinks that startups might just be the answer we are looking for.
The Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge aims to recognize new business ideas that leverage technology for social impact from early-stage entrepreneurs around the world.
Committed to positively impacting 1 billion people by 2025 – they are already halfway there – the American technology conglomerate not only wants to inspire a generation of global problem solvers but help them “thrive” in today’s digital economy and challenging climate.
With digital at the heart of everything today, ideas are spreading at a faster pace than ever before and enabling breakthrough technologies to be created at an unprecedented rate.
Validate Your Idea
With a total of $1M in prize money being split among fifteen startups, the Global Problem Solver Challenge is bound to attract some exciting talent.
Next to a cash infusion, startups’ ideas will also be reviewed by a panel of expert judges and Cisco technology experts, providing them industry validation, the possibility of global recognition and publicity.
Any startup which uses digital technology to positively impact society or the environment may apply. These can include, but are not limited to, startups focussing on water or food security, healthcare, financial inclusion, education, accessibility and the environment. For a full list of eligibility requirements, click here.
The ideas will be judged based on four criteria: technological innovation (33%), feasibility (24%), impact (33%) and clarity (10%). With up to 15 startups having the chance to win some prize money, Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge is a great opportunity to test your idea on the global stage.
Interested startups have until February 11, 2022 and can apply here.
