Deadline: January 17, 2020 00:00 CET| Apply here
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Eligibility: For participants to be eligible, at least half of the team’s members must be students currently enrolled at a post-secondary institution or have received a degree after March 1, 2018. If entering as a business entity, at least 25% of the business must be owned by individuals that meet the above qualifications. Individual students and recent grads may also apply.
Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge 2020
Cisco is committed to positively impacting 1 billion people by 2025. As part of its work, the organisation seeks to inspire and empower a generation of global problem solvers who will not only survive – but drive and thrive – in our increasingly digital economy.
With the Internet of Things (IoT) and digital technologies connecting more devices and data than ever before, good ideas now have the ability to make a difference more quickly than ever before – and we’re here to help.
The fourth annual Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge aims to recognize new business ideas that leverage technology for social impact from student entrepreneurs around the world. The Challenge is open to students and recent alumni from any college or university.
$350,000 USD in prize money will help accelerate the adoption of breakthrough technology, products, and services that drive economic development and/or solve social or environmental problems.
Who should apply
If your solution uses digital technology to positively impact society or the environment consider entering.
Areas of impact include, but are not limited to, critical human needs like water or food security, healthcare, financial inclusion, education, accessibility, and the environment.
Prizes
In addition to a cash infusion to develop your solution, it will be reviewed by Cisco technology experts and high-profile judges. You’ll receive peer and industry validation for your solution, as well as have a great opportunity for global recognition and publicity.
- $100,000 USD Grand Prize
- $75,000 USD First Runner-Up
- $25,000 USD Second Runners-Up
Three teams will be designated the second runners-up and will receive $25,000 USD each. - $10,000 USD Third Runners-Up
Four teams will be designated the third runners-up and will receive $10,000 USD each. - $10,000 USD People’s Choice
India Impact Prizes
In 2020, Cisco is offering a special regional Global Problem Solver Challenge: India Impact prize.
A total of $50,000 USD in prizes will be awarded to Indian social entrepreneurs.
Teams will be eligible for the India Impact prizes if their team members are current students or recent graduates of an Indian post-secondary institution, and their solution must be focused on a social or environmental problem that affects India.
- $25,000 USD India Impact Grand Prize
- $10,000 USD India Impact Runners-Up
- $5,000 USD India Impact People’s Choice
Interested in attending the Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge 2020? Register your participation by following the registration link and taking the suggested steps.
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