The GSMA has unveiled its latest initiative, the GSMA Innovation Fund, in collaboration with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), aimed at tackling humanitarian issues.

Since 2017, the GSMA Innovation Fund has allocated over GBP5 million (US$6.3 million) to startups, SMEs, and social enterprises. The newly launched GSMA Humanitarian Innovation Fund is part of this initiative, offering grants of up to GBP250,000 (US$320,000) along with non-financial and technical support. Its primary focus is to trial and bolster novel solutions leveraging digital technologies, particularly mobile, to confront humanitarian crises in low- and middle-income nations. These challenges encompass food shortages, displacement, and various natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, and typhoons.

Moreover, the fund seeks innovations employing cutting-edge technologies like AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance readiness and responses to humanitarian issues. It emphasizes catering to the requirements of populations affected by crises, including internally displaced persons and refugees, by facilitating access to critical aid, services, and life-saving information. Additionally, the fund encourages adaptations or replications of existing innovations in novel contexts to address humanitarian challenges.

The application window for proposals is currently open and will accept submissions until February 12, 2024. Interested parties can apply through this link Click here