MIT Solve is marking its decade-long journey by launching the 10th Anniversary Global Challenge, searching for 10 revolutionary solutions to the world’s most pressing issues.
This initiative seeks to bridge gaps in equity and access by scaling innovations that prioritize people and technological ingenuity.
Over the last ten years, Solve has helped over 100 challenge winners reach 370 million lives and raise $1.1 billion.
The 2026 challenge focuses on high-impact areas including climate adaptation, economic opportunity, healthcare resilience, and inclusive learning.
Funding and benefits
Selected “Solvers” will receive at least $100,000 in unrestricted prize funding to use as they see fit.
Beyond the initial cash, winners gain access to MIT’s prestigious innovation ecosystem, featuring specialized mentorship and pro-bono legal support.
Winners will also travel to New York City for the Solve Challenge Finals during UN General Assembly week in September 2026.
There, they will pitch their work directly to a global network of investors and funders, enjoying long-term media exposure and speaking opportunities.
Specific additional awards are also on the table, such as the $150,000 AI for Humanity Prize for data science innovations.
Other prizes target sustainability, workforce development, and mental health transformation.
Application requirements and eligibility
This challenge is specifically designed for tech-based social impact solutions that are already operating at scale or are scale-ready.
Solutions must demonstrate a consistent product or service, clear unit economics, and a proven track record of impact.
While the challenge is open to global innovators and previous Solvers, it is not currently accepting early-stage pilots. Applicants will be judged on their innovation, feasibility, scalability, and potential for partnership within the Solve community.
Deadline
Interested innovators must submit their solutions by the final deadline of May 21, 2026, at 12:00 pm EDT. For those looking for more information, an application clinic will be held on April 15 to review selection criteria.
To apply, visit Solve call page. Visit our global opportunity page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
