Application closes on August 14,2020
This Global Prize seeks solutions that address gender equality and inclusion of vulnerable populations by putting all people at the heart of identification systems.
Mission Billion Challenge
The World Bank’s Mission Billion Challenge is seeking innovative solutions to increase inclusion and access to digital platforms such as identification systems. This challenge will crowdsource solutions to make ID systems more accessible and responsive to the needs of vulnerable persons, such as informal workers, particularly at a time when countries seek to leverage digital technologies and platforms to shift services to online channels and deliver cash relief to persons affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2020 Mission Billion Challenge offers a Global Prize and a West Africa Prize for solutions that ensure the inclusivity of ID systems for vulnerable groups, particularly during physical distancing requirements. The Challenge offers cash prizes totaling up to US$150,000 for the most promising solutions.
Global Prize
The Global Prize is seeking solutions that address these specific needs:
- How can countries ensure that everyone—especially vulnerable groups—are able to apply/register for an ID in a way that protects people’s health and the integrity of the ID system?
- How can countries ensure that digital authentication mechanisms—which often require smartphones, computers and/or internet access—are accessible and user-friendly for marginalized and vulnerable populations to facilitate remote access to services and benefits?
Eligibility:
- The Challenge is open to contestants from member countries of the world bank
- Individuals including academics, entrepreneurs, scientists, technologists and other engaged citizens
- Organizations involved in research, advocacy, design and implementation of digital ID systems, digital payment or social protection systems
- Individuals must be at least 18 years of age at time of entry
- Organizations must be legally established entities (profit, non-profit, academic) in their respective countries
Benefits:
- A total of $150,000 in Cash Prizes
- Finalists will be invited to a high-level event in Washington D.C. to present the solutions or ideas in front of distinguished judges in a high-level event at the world bank and receive mentorship and support from Google Developers Experts
More details about the Global Prize HERE
Apply for the Global Prize HERE
More details about the WURI West Africa Prize HERE
