Global Problem Solver Challenge 2022

$1 Million USD in Prizes Calling All #TechForGood Startups

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 thrive – in our increasingly digital economy. With 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.

Our 6th annual Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge aims to recognize new business ideas that leverage technology for social impact from early-stage entrepreneurs around the world.

$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.

Prizes

$250,000 USD Grand Prize
A single team will be designated the grand prize winner.
$75,000 USD Regional First Runners-Up
Three teams from around the world (Americas, EMEAR and APJC) will be designated the regional first runners-up and will receive $75,000 USD each.
$50,000 USD Second Runners-Up
Three teams will be designated the second runners-up and will receive $50,000 USD each.
$10,000 USD People’s Choice
The finalist entry that receives the most votes will receive the People’s Choice Award.
$15,000 USD Cisco Employees’ Choice
The finalist entry that receives the most votes will receive the Cisco Employees’ Choice Award.
$100,000 USD Climate Impact & Regeneration Prize
A single team will be designated as the winner of this prize.
$50,000 USD Climate Impact & Regeneration Prize Runners-Up
Four teams will be designated as the winners of this prize.
$50,000 USD HBCU Startup Prize
A single team will be designated as the winner of this prize.

More detail about the prizes can be found here.

Why should you participate?

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.

Should you enter?

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.

Eligibility criteria

This Contest is open and offered only to (1) individuals age eighteen (18) years or older at the time of registration (“Individual Participant”), 2) teams of up to five individuals age eighteen (18) years or older at the time of registration (“Team Participant”), and (3) legal business entities (“Business Entity Participant”).

Please note: Individual Participants, Team Participants, and/or Business Entity Participants that have previously received monetary awards in the Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge or a Cisco prize at the Rice Business Plan Competition are not eligible for this Contest.
Confirmation of eligibility will be required prior to awarding any prizes.

For detailed rules and eligibility criteria, please check this link.

Timeline