Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge

Application Deadline:January 29, 2021, at 5 pm PT!

Cisco is committed to positively impacting 1 billion people by 2025. As part of our work, we seek 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 devices and data, good ideas now have the ability to make a difference more quickly than ever before – and we’re here to help. 

The fifth annual Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge aims to recognize new business ideas that leverage technology for social impact from entrepreneurs around the world. The goal is to advance early-stage projects that are beyond the concept or idea formation stage, but which have not yet generated over $1M USD in funding and/or revenue.

$1,000,000 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.

Requirements

• 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. Our goal is to advance early-stage projects that are beyond the concept or idea formation stage, but which have not yet generated over $1M USD in funding and/or revenue.
• Cisco look for projects with a dedicated team and that have completed a proof of concept for the core functionality of the product/service at a minimum. For detailed eligibility requirements, please reivew the rules. 

Prizes:

• $250,000 USD Grand PrizeA single team will be designated the grand prize winner.
• $75,000 USD Regional First Runners-UpThree teams from Americas, EMEAR and APJC will be designated the regional first runners-up and will receive $75,000 USD each.
• $50,000 USD Second Runners-UpThree teams will be designated the second runners-up and will receive $50,000 USD each.
• $25,000 USD Third Runners-UpThree teams will be designated the third runners-up and will receive $25,000 USD each.
• $10,000 USD Fourth Runners-UpThree teams will be designated the fourth runners-up and will receive $10,000 USD each.
• $10,000 USD People’s ChoiceThe finalist entry that receives the most votes will receive the People’s Choice Award.
• $10,000 USD Cisco Employees’ ChoiceThe finalist entry that receives the most votes will receive the Cisco Employees’ Choice Award.

Special Prozes

• $50,000 USD Greenhouse Gas Solutions PrizeA single team will be designated as the winner of this prize.
• $50,000 USD Ethical AI PrizeA single team will be designated as the winner of this prize.
• $50,000 USD Digital Inclusivity PrizeA single team will be designated as the winner of this prize.
• $50,000 USD HBCU Startup PrizeA single team will be designated as the winner of this prize.
• $50,000 USD Pandemic Response PrizeA single team will be designated as the winner of this prize.

Other Benefits

• 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. 

Timeline:

• Applications OpenOctober 27, 2020
• Applications Close Jan 29 at 5 pm PT January 29, 2021
• Semi-Finalists Invited to SubmitMarch 30, 2021
• Semi-Finalist Submissions Close Apr 23 at 5 pm PTApril 23, 2021
• Finalists Announced and People’s Choice Voting OpensJune 2, 2021
• People’s Choice Voting ClosesJune 18, 2021
• Winners AnnouncedJune 29, 2021

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge 2021