App challenge for inclusion

A cash prize of USD 5,000 is offered to the winner of a new ITU Application Challenge seeking to uncover apps extending the reach of mobile health, mobile money, e-learning, e-government and intelligent transport systems.

The ICT Innovation Application Challenge aims to promote sustainable, equitable economic growth in emerging economies by unearthing apps targeting the social and economic inclusion of traditionally underserved communities.

Coordinated by the Focus Group on Bridging the Gap: from Innovation to Standards (FG Innovation), the Challenge was launched during an ‚”ICT Innovations‚” side event of the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA-12) in Dubai, UAE. FG Innovation investigates the reciprocal relationship between innovation and standardization with a particular focus on emerging markets.

How do I enter?

App developers are requested to submit a working application accompanied by a concept paper detailing the app’s design and conceptual motivation. Apps should take full advantage of mobile phones, mobile Internet access and social media tools to improve the transparency of government or increase access to healthcare, financial services, education or transportation.

The winning individual/SME will receive a cash prize of USD 5,000 courtesy of Nokia Siemens Networks, and a one-year, worldwide right to the use of the Challenge’s logo in any material promoting the app. The winning corporation/public sector organization will receive an award certificate and a similar one-year, worldwide right to the use of the Challenge’s logo in any of the app’s promotional material.

The results of the Challenge will be announced at an ITU celebration of the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, 17 May 2013, where the winners will be invited to showcase their apps to a global audience of top-level decision makers from the public and private sector.

More information and detailed Challenge rules: www.itu.int/go/challenges/ictinnovation

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