Digitize. Do More Good.
Five hundred billion devices and objects will be connected to the Internet by 2030!
Things like wells, cars, watches, refrigerators, and more will be connected to the Internet for the first time so that they can transmit and receive information.
Digitization is about connecting people and things to the Internet so that the information those connections provide can be used to improve processes and decision making.
With digitization and the Internet of Things (IoT), good ideas can make a difference more quickly than ever before by driving economic development and helping people solve some of our most pressing social and environmental challenges.
Our 1B People Pledge
As part of our work to positively impact 1 billion people by 2025, Cisco 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. This challenge aims to recognize student entrepreneurs that promote and accelerate the adoption of breakthrough technologies, products and services that drive economic development and/or solve social or environmental problems.
Who Should Enter?
This challenge is open to students or recent alumni from any college or university. For detailed eligibility requirements, please click here .
Areas of impact could include, but are not limited to:
- local industry/economic development
- critical human needs (food, water, shelter, and disaster relief)
- healthcare
- economic empowerment/financial inclusion
- education
- environment
- connectivity
Digital Technologies that enable these innovations may include, but are not limited to:
- connected/smart solutions (smart home, smart city, smart energy)
- connected transportation
- wearables
- big data
- analytics
- cloud computing
We are awarding $300,000 to support Global Problem Solvers
Prizes
Grand Prize
The Grand Prize winner will receive $100,000 USD.
First Runner Up
The First Runner Up will receive $75,000 USD.
Second Runners Up
Three teams will be designated the Second Runners Up and will receive $25,000 USD each.
Third Runners Up
Four teams will be designated the Third Runners Up and will receive $10,000 USD each.
People's Choice
The People's Choice winner will receive $10,000 USD.
Applications Open
Applications Close May 30 at 5 PM PT
Finalists Announced
People's Choice Voting Open June 12 - 28
Winners Announced
Why you should participate?
Huge cash infusion to develop your company or solution
Global recognition and publicity for your company or solution
Looks great on a resume or in a prospectus to potential funders
Review by Cisco technology experts and high profile judges
Peer and industry validation for your solution