The ‘Global Tech Challenge: Solutions for Women,’ an effort to bridge the digital gender gap, was won by Bridge for Billions.
One of the winners of the ‘Global Tech Challenge: Solutions for Women,’ an initiative initiated by the World Bank Group and CES to bridge the digital gender gap, is Bridge for Billions.
one of the largest entrepreneurship networks in the world that develops, designs, and manages innovation programs.
Soochnapreneur and MicroMentor were among the winning solutions.
Bridge for Billions, for example, is a scalable and creative technical solution that aims to empower women.
“Being recognized for our efforts to democratize access to high-quality entrepreneurship training, mentoring, and business opportunities around the world is an honor.
We are removing sexism against female entrepreneurs through our entrepreneurship initiatives, with a gender ratio of 46 percent female to 54 percent male,” says Pablo Santaeufemia, CEO and co-founder of Bridge for Billions.
Over 300 million women in low- and middle-income countries are excluded from the opportunities provided by digital technology due to a lack of internet connectivity compared to men.
Addressing this growing divide is critical, particularly during times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, when connectivity is critical.
“The winners of this challenge are tackling the digital gender gap on many fronts, from increasing access to communication and knowledge for women in rural areas to mentoring isolated female entrepreneurs.
“The World Bank Group is pleased to collaborate with the selected innovators so that women and girls around the world can fully embrace the opportunities presented by digital transformation,” said Boutheina Guermazi, Director of Digital Development at the World Bank.
Bridge for Billions, a company recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30 and Ashoka
The company has collaborated with over 100 companies and organizations, including Coca-Cola, Accenture, and BMW.
In order to encourage the creation of creative solutions to real-world problems.
More than 1,700 entrepreneurs in over 80 countries have benefited from its services.
The challenge rewards scalable and creative technical solutions that aim to increase digital access, skills, and opportunities for women.
Also it is supported by the World Bank’s Digital Development Practice, whose goal is to achieve connectivity for all.
A jury of experts from Microsoft 4Afrika Initiatives, GSMA, SoftBank, the International Telecommunication Union, IBM, and The Female Quotient assessed the winning solutions.