Siemens Stiftung has opened applications for the “empowering people. Award 2015”, which looks to reward innovative solutions improving basic supply in developing regions across the world.
Siemens Stiftung, a foundation that operates in the fields of basic services, education, and culture, with a geographical focus on regions in Africa and Latin America, said the “empowering people. Award” calls on innovators to submit their products in one of eight categories covering the main areas of basic supply in impoverished regions.
One of the pivotal criteria for the award is the potential to be embedded in entrepreneurial models, providing sustainable help to individuals and communities in developing regions. Applications are open until November 30.
The first prize winner will be awarded a EUR50,000 (US$56,000), with second place walking away with EUR30,000 (US$34,000). Third place takes EUR20,000 (US$22,000), while 20 runners-up will be awarded EUR5,000 (US$6,000) each. A Community Prize will also be awarded, worth EUR3,000 (US$3,500).
The award is looking for solutions in the categories of Water and Waste Water, Energy, Food and Agriculture, Waste Management, Healthcare, Sheltering, Education and Information and Communication.
“The goal of the contest is ultimately to empower people in developing regions to have access to basic services for their daily needs,” said Rolf Huber, managing director of Siemens Stiftung.
“We want to locate creative solutions and we are eager to work with innovative teams to bring their solutions to the lives of those who need them most. Since our first award in 2012, we were able to support dozens of initiatives. In addition, our network partners of engineers from various fields and social business experts around the world help them maximise their impact.”
Successful solutions will also be showcased and promoted in a Solutions Database, with the inventors and entrepreneurs behind the innovations becoming part of the broader “empowering people. Network”. This community, created and facilitated by Siemens Stiftung, consists of developers and social entrepreneurs from around the globe. Members benefit from training sessions and expert support.
