Google Cloud, SAP Opens Up $100,000 Innovation Contest

Google Cloud and SAP have launched a global sustainability contest for social entrepreneurs that have innovative ideas involving data analytics and machine learning. The Global Footprint Network has estimated that the global demand for resources was 1.7 times what the Earth could support in 2018 and by 2030, we might need two Earths to sustain our way of life. The circular economy has gained ground at a global level. According to estimates, a circular economy that increases social well-being and economic output while fostering a healthy environment can generate 4.5 trillion USD of new economic output by 2030.

Sunil Geness, Head of CSR at SAP Africa said ” As a purpose driven organization, SAP is deeply committed to embracing the challenge of environmental responsibility and to put technology, people and passion to work, to solve some of the bigger issues of the digital age.”

“Through our partnership with Google, we are hoping the launch of the circular Economy 2030 initiative will ignite a new wave of inspiration and innovation among social entrepreneurs, as we search for data driven and technology enabled solutions that can help the world run better and improve people’s lives.” He said.

The UN Environment, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the World Wildlife Fund, and the Partnership for Sustainable Development Data are Experts who Google Cloud and SAP are working together with for the 2030 initiative.

Mzamo Masito Google Marketing Director for Africa said, ” We believe that with the help of modern technology, businesses can become positive catalysts for a more sustainable future. Our partnership with SAP will not only support social entrepreneurship but continue our commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and advancing a circular economy.”

The submission deadline is March 17th. The five selected finalists will be announced at the Google Cloud Next Conference on the April 9th to 11th, where they will compete in a hackathon taking place in San Francisco on April 12th. The judges will be on the lookout for innovative ideas that can add to any aspect of the global economy.

Proposals must include;
Viable business model, 12 visions for advancing Sustainable Development Goal (responsible consumption and production), SAP and Google Cloud solutions must be used to enable ideas at current scale.

Prize for the winner includes;
100,00 USD cash prize
Participation in Google Cloud for startups Bootcamp
One on one mentorship.
The other four finalists will receive 25,000 USD cash prize
The winner will be announced on the 7th of May at SAPPHIRE NOW.

Interested? Click here