Deadline for applications: June 30th, 2013 at 24:00 GMT+1
The Young Innovators Competition seeks to foster innovative ideas amongst the next generation of social entrepreneurs working to change the world through technology. It is open to any young person between the ages of 18 and 26 with an original solution to one of our six Global Challenges.
The International Telecommunication Union is looking for the next generation of social technopreneurs – young people aged between 18 and 26 with an inspirational ICT-based solution to developmental challenges. Ten winning finalists will be selected to attend ITU Telecom World 2013 in Bangkok, taking part in workshops, pitching sessions, mentoring and networking, plus receiving seed funding of up to USD 10,000 per project.
Your idea could be a start-up already up and running but in need of funding to implement the next stage and bring it to scale. Or it could be a concept worked out on paper but in need of support to make it real.
It doesn’t matter: what we want are innovative solutions which can really make an impact on the world and improve people’s lives by using connected technologies (ICTs) to address one of our Six Grand Challenges:
- Improve employment opportunities for young people and migrant workers
- Reduce food wastage at individual and retail level
- Improve access to ICTs for marginalized groups such as the elderly and women
- Improve natural disaster prediction and response
- Improve road safety for both drivers and pedestrians
- Protect sensitive personal data held by institutions and inspire the creation of local digital content
Benefits
The ten finalists selected by a committee of experts will win:
- Up to USD 10,000 in seed money to implement and bring to scale winning start-ups; up to 5,000 USD for winning concepts
- An invitation to attend ITU Telecom World 2013 in Bangkok
- Mentoring from high-level industry representatives both in Bangkok and for the following year
- Hands-on workshop training in entrepreneurial skills
- Opportunities to meet and network with leading ICT players
- Showcasing platform at our dedicated pavilion on the showfloor
Deadline for applications: June 30th, 2013 at 24:00 GMT+1
How to apply
It’s easy to apply. Just fill in the application form and send it to young.innovators@itu.int with “2013 Young Innovators Competition” in the subject line. Remember, your submission must address one of our six Global Challenges.
Download the Young Innovators Competition 2013 Application Form
Young Innovator Competition Evaluation Criteria
Young Innovator Competition Terms and Conditions
Young Innovators Competition Frequently Asked Questions