D-Prize Innovation Challenge for Poverty Intervention in Developing Countries 2018

The world has already invented ways to end poverty, yet the best interventions are not being distributed at mass-scale. Can you design a business or NGO that solves one of the Distribution Challenges below?

Application Deadlines: 

• Early decision round: 2nd April, 2018 at midnight PT (Pacific Time)
• Regular submission deadline: 23rd April, 2018 at midnight PT
• Extension deadline (limited to 200 people who register): 14th May, 2018

About the Award: D-Prize funds new entrepreneurs who increase access to proven poverty interventions. D-Prize is exclusively interested in ventures that will scale distribution of an already proven poverty intervention in the developing world. We do not fund prototypes of promising new interventions.

D-Prize Challenges :

• GIRL’S EDUCATION
• AGRICULTURE
• ENERGY
• GLOBAL HEALTH
• EDUCATION
• GOVERNANCE AND INFRASTRUCTURE
• CUSTOM

Type: Entrepreneurship

Eligibility:

• D-Prize is for aspiring entrepreneurs from anywhere in the world, of any age, and any background.
• We will consider funding existing organizations only if: you are piloting a new distribution-focused initiative, and you need high risk capital.

Selection Criteria: 

• You should have enormous ambition, and can imagine yourself as a successful entrepreneur. You are ready to launch your new venture, and – if a pilot proves successful – you are excited to grow it into a world changing organization.
• If you are still a student or have existing commitments, you should have a clear idea how to transition into a full-time founder.
• D-Prize is exclusively interested in ventures that will scale distribution of an already proven poverty intervention in the developing world. We do not fund prototypes of promising new interventions.

The D-Prize judging panel is composed of individuals with professional experience distributing life-changing technologies in the developing world.

Evaluation Criteria: Contestants are evaluated based on:

• Passion and potential for candidate’s success, as evident by their academic and professional background, relevant skills, and quick leadership trajectory.
• Focus on distribution. Proposals must focus on distributing a proven poverty solution that needs greater access in the developing world.
• Potential for scale, based on the organizational model proposed in the concept note and the entrepreneur’s desire to commit and grow.

Number of Awards: Up to 25 of the most promising proposals will be selected for funding awards, regardless of which challenge track was selected.

Value of Award: All winners will be awarded up to $20,000. The award is offered in the form of a convertible grant

How to Apply: It is important to read the application instructions on the Program Webpage (see link below) before applying.

Final decisions expected by December.

Visit the Program Webpage for Details

Award Providers: D-Prize