The World Summit Awards (WSA), a prestigious global awards system, is now accepting nominations for the 2024 cycle. Focused on local digital innovations that create high-impact societal change, the WSA is more than just an awards system—it’s a platform for sustainable knowledge exchange and lifelong partnerships. Through a worldwide network of ICT experts, the WSA supports innovation aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), offering a unique opportunity for innovators to be recognized on a global stage.
Since its inception in 2003, the WSA has honored 809 winners from over 4000 nominations across a broad range of categories, from healthcare solutions and educational tools to platforms supporting sustainable development and social justice. The WSA offers more than a one-time financial reward; it provides innovators with lifelong support, partnership opportunities, and access to a global network that fosters continued growth and development.
The WSA is committed to selecting digital innovations that address societal challenges and promote sustainable development. These projects must excel in content, functionality, design, technology, and innovation, while also demonstrating significant impact and alignment with UN SDGs.
In addition to honoring global digital innovators, the WSA recognizes the next generation of changemakers through the WSA Young Innovators Award. This special distinction is reserved for young social entrepreneurs under 26 years of age who use digital technology to address key challenges related to the UN SDGs. By supporting these young innovators, the WSA ensures that the world’s future leaders in technology and social impact receive the guidance, visibility, and network they need to thrive.
The selection process for the WSA is renowned for its democratic and transparent approach. Once a project is nominated, it undergoes several stages of rigorous evaluation, assessed on both technical and strategic criteria. Judges evaluate projects based on:
- Content: Is the project addressing a pressing societal need?
- Functionality: How well does the technology work?
- Design: Is the interface user-friendly and accessible?
- Technology: Does the project incorporate innovative tech?
- Innovation: Does it push the boundaries of what is possible?
Additionally, projects are judged based on their impact and alignment with global and UN values. Only the best digital solutions, those with tangible contributions to improving society, make it to the final stages of the selection process, and a few are even crowned Global Champions.
To locate and promote digital innovations worldwide, the WSA collaborates with a network of ICT experts in over 180 countries. This ensures that no corner of the globe is left untapped when identifying cutting-edge solutions with the potential to create real change. Furthermore, WSA fosters partnerships with other awards systems that share its vision, allowing for even greater collaboration and visibility for outstanding digital innovations.
Innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers are encouraged to submit their projects for consideration before the deadline of October 15, 2024. By participating, you will not only join the ranks of the world’s top digital innovators but also gain access to a community committed to creating lasting social impact.
For more information on how to submit a nomination or to learn more about the World Summit Awards, please visit www.worldsummitawards.org.