In an exciting development for technology enthusiasts and social innovators worldwide, MIT Solve officially kicked off its prestigious 2021 Global Challenges on March 1, offering an impressive prize pool exceeding $1.5 million for groundbreaking AI-driven solutions to global problems.
The initiative actively seeks innovative technology-based approaches from social entrepreneurs across the globe, focusing on addressing five critical challenges that impact our society. With a submission deadline of June 16, this inclusive competition welcomes participants from all backgrounds and regions. Adding star power to this year's event, MIT Solve has announced Eric S. Yuan, the visionary founder and CEO of Zoom, alongside Karlie Kloss, creator of Kode With Klossy, as the distinguished 2021 Challenge Ambassadors.
To support applicants throughout the submission process, Solve has collaborated with MITx to offer an educational course titled "Business and Impact Planning for Social Enterprises." This comprehensive program introduces essential business model frameworks and theory-of-change concepts specifically designed for early-stage entrepreneurs developing AI solutions for social good.
The most promising innovators will earn the opportunity to showcase their ideas at the Solve Challenge Finals scheduled for September 19 in New York City, coinciding with the U.N. General Assembly week. During this high-profile event, finalists will present their cutting-edge solutions to Solve's Challenge Leadership Groups—expert judging panels comprising industry pioneers and MIT faculty members. The most exceptional proposals will be selected to join the prestigious ranks of Solver teams.
"Following a year marked by unprecedented global challenges—from health crises and educational disruption to digital inequality and systemic injustice—supporting diverse innovators who leverage artificial intelligence and emerging technologies has never been more critical," emphasizes Alex Amouyel, executive director of MIT Solve. "Our commitment extends to strengthening communities worldwide by empowering innovators addressing our 2021 Global Challenges through comprehensive support including funding, expert mentorship, and access to MIT's extensive innovation network. We invite both prospective partners and applicants to join this transformative journey."
Selected Solver teams embark on an intensive nine-month acceleration program, gaining access to vital resources needed to scale their impact. Through strategic partnerships, Solve has successfully mobilized over $40 million in funding commitments for Solver teams and entrepreneurs to date, fostering the next generation of AI-powered social innovation.
Solve's challenge development process incorporates valuable insights from diverse stakeholders, including industry leaders, MIT faculty experts, and representatives from local communities most affected by these global issues.
The five transformative focus areas for Solve's 2021 Global Challenges include:
This year's generous supporters include the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation, General Motors, Comcast NBCUniversal, Vodafone Americas Foundation, HP, Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, American Student Assistance, The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Andan Foundation, Good Energies Foundation, and the Elevate Prize Foundation. The broader Solve community will connect during the Virtual Solve at MIT event on May 3-4, featuring 2020 Solver teams, dedicated members, and strategic partners collaborating to address global challenges through innovative AI applications.
Functioning as a dynamic marketplace for social impact innovation, Solve's core mission centers on tackling the world's most complex problems. The organization identifies promising technology-focused social entrepreneurs globally, then harnesses MIT's robust innovation ecosystem and a vibrant community of members to fund and nurture these entrepreneurs, amplifying their positive impact on a global scale. Organizations interested in contributing to this mission can explore membership opportunities and apply for membership here.
