BOOST is a new platform fast-tracking innovative solutions that tackle Covid-19 issues. The final deadline for applications is set for 30 September 2020.
The Ministry of Finance of the Slovak Republic joined an initiative designed to tackle long-term effects of Covid-19. Together with the UNDP, Turkish Koc Foundation, and the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs they launched BOOST, a regional acceleration programme for social impact innovation.
The programme features a series of challenges that address development issues related to new digital services, low-touch economies and wellbeing. The Slovak Ministry of Finance is hosting the Innovation Challenge. “We have built a close partnership with the UNDP. Together, we have been supporting innovation and open data since 2015, when the Transformative Governance and Finance Facility was launched, and we have readily joined the UNDP’s response to the Covid-19 crisis. BOOST will prepare organizations and businesses to roll out their digital solutions. Successful applicants will receive funding and professional support, and I hope this will be a great motivation for applicants to submit their projects,” says Tatiana Žilková, who leads the Development Cooperation team at the ministry. Winners of the Innovation Challenge will receive up to $15,000 to prototype and implement solutions.
All current challenges are open for innovative solutions from private sector entities, research institutes, academia, and civil society organizations in the Europe and Central Asia region. Successful applicants will benefit from over $400,000 in prize funding and gain access to the UNDP-backed network of peers, funders, and experts.
How to embark on a BOOST journey
- Browse open challenges and check eligibility criteria. Current challenges include (each challenge has its own individual page):
- Innovation Challenge, hosted by the UNDP and the Slovak Ministry of Finance,
- Civil Society Technology Challenge, hosted by the UNDP & Koç Holding,
- Polish Challenge Fund, hosted by the UNDP and the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- If you have any questions regarding the application process, join an information session that will be held on Thursday, September 17th.
- Apply using the available application form by September 30.
- Wait for selection of winning ideas and announcement of programme participants.
- If selected, you will pass a needs assessment and get a personalized plan prior to the programme launch.
- Enjoy BOOST, an intensive six-month online acceleration programme designed to prepare you to roll out your solution. The programme consists of four online tracks and mentorship, including 1-on-1 sessions with field experts.
More information on www.boostimpact.org.