Organisations with good ideas to address social problems in developing countries have the chance to win funding and support by entering the Innovation into Action Challenge. Get your entry in by 29 February.
Some organisations and startups have really good ideas, some of which may have already been tested out, but still need a little experienced support to reach the next level and to initiate positive social and economic change in developing and emerging countries. Organisations in this position can apply to the Innovation into Action Challenge and go in the running to win some much-needed financial support.
The US Global Development Lab (DAI), Innovation Program of Montgomery County in Maryland and the Global Accelerator Network have together developed the Innovation in to Action Challenge to call upon startups and organisations to apply with their innovative ideas.
The organisers are especially on the lookout for ideas and projects that would particularly benefit from a partnership with DAI. The project or applying organisation does not need to be not-for-profit but the idea must be developed beyond the brainstorming stage. Most importantly, the product or service being proposed must have a positive impact on the lives of people in developing countries.
What’s Behind the Challenge?
The idea is to assist people in developing countries using products and services that can have a positive influence on economic and ecological problems. The topics the challenge is looking to tackle are diverse: food security, water, natural resources, supply chain and more. Innovative ideas in the following six categories are particularly welcome:
- Governance and Services: Fostering dialogue between governments and citizens.
- Workforce Development: Equipping young people with skills and ways to connect to the labor market.
- Data Analytics: Improving monitoring, service delivery, and impact of projects related to health, education, energy, water and sanitation.
- Knowledge Management: Facilitating learning and collaboration among development partners.
- Climate Change Adaptation: Helping monitor and respond to changes in the environment.
- Agriculture: Improve and secure food production and distribution.
20,000 Dollars, Mentoring and a New Network
Three winners will receive a customised support package that includes 20,000 USD in funding, mentoring and the opportunity to network with other DAI projects. Applications are currently being accepted until 29 February – apply online.
Find out more about the challenge here.
Translated from this article by Hanadi that was first published on our German-language platform.
