Backing Australia’s forward thinkers

Every day, Australian nonprofits and social enterprises are finding new ways to address some of our most challenging social problems - from education and economic opportunity to inclusion.

We know that technology can be part of the solution. Big ideas, such as using machine learning to help health professionals detect cancer, highlight the transformative potential of technology. Many Australian nonprofits already use technology to tackle challenges and some have big ideas that need an extra boost, that’s why we’re launching the 2018 Google.org Impact Challenge.

Through the Google.org Impact Challenge, we’re backing Australia’s forward thinkers. This year, nonprofits and social enterprises can apply for a share of $5.5 million to support projects that use technology for good. Grants of up to $1 million will be available to the winners. We’re excited to announce that applications open today.

This is the third Google.org Impact Challenge in Australia. Previous winners include supporting Fred Hollows’ low-cost mobile camera to detect and prevent blindness caused by diabetes, investing in Infoxchange’s web app called Ask Izzy to connect people experiencing homelessness with social services, and supporting the Great Barrier Reef Foundation to develop autonomous underwater vehicles to help protect the reef.

Australia has a long history of innovating for impact, whether it’s the bionic ear or WiFi. Through the Google.org Impact Challenge we want to champion our emerging innovators.

Ten finalists will be announced in October, and then we want to hear from you! Australians will be invited to vote for your favourite idea - which will take out the $1 million People’s Choice prize.

If you know a nonprofit or social enterprise with a big idea to make a difference, encourage them to apply before 6 July 2018. Find out more at: g.co/australiachallenge and get behind Australia’s forward thinkers!