Apply Now! The 2025 Global Health Challenge

How Technology Can Transform Global Health Access

Access to quality healthcare remains a critical challenge worldwide. Despite advancements over the past two decades, half the global population still lacks access to comprehensive health services, and two billion people struggle with out-of-pocket healthcare costs. The disparities in healthcare access are particularly evident in low- and middle-income countries, where inequalities continue to grow.

Technology and innovation hold immense potential to bridge these gaps and improve health outcomes globally. When deployed effectively, new technologies can enhance the accessibility, affordability, and quality of healthcare. From strengthening healthcare infrastructure to leveraging artificial intelligence for better diagnostics, technology-driven solutions can drive meaningful change.

The 2025 Global Health Challenge

MIT Solve is calling for innovative solutions that use technology to increase access to healthcare and improve health outcomes. The challenge focuses on solutions that:

• Ensure ethical and effective data collection to improve the accuracy and applicability of AI-driven insights.
• Strengthen healthcare systems by enhancing workforce capacity, improving supply chains, and reinforcing healthcare infrastructure.
• Expand access to quality healthcare services for underserved communities worldwide.

This challenge is an opportunity for entrepreneurs, technologists, and healthcare professionals to develop transformative solutions and receive support for scaling their impact.

Funding and Prizes

Selected Solver teams will receive funding and resources to accelerate their solutions. These include:

• MIT Solve Solver Award: $10,000 grant for all selected teams.
• Health Innovation Award: Additional prize support from the Johnson & Johnson Foundation.
• Seeding The Future Food Systems Prize: Up to $150,000 for high-impact food system innovations benefiting underserved communities.
• E Ink Innovation Prize: Up to $100,000 for solutions incorporating ePaper technology.
• AI for Humanity Prize: Up to $150,000 for AI-driven solutions that benefit humanity.
• Citizens Workforce Innovation Prize: Up to $100,000 for solutions addressing workforce development.
• Crescent Enterprises ‘AI for Social Innovation’ Prize: Up to $100,000 for AI-based solutions tackling global challenges.
• Community Innovation Prize: Up to $200,000 for community-led innovations in health, economic prosperity, climate, and indigenous communities.

The Solver Program: Resources and Support

Selected teams will gain access to a robust nine-month support program, which includes:

• Tailored workshops on business model development, marketing, and impact measurement.
• Leadership coaching and in-kind support such as software licenses and legal services.
• Networking opportunities with MIT experts, industry leaders, and investors.
• Media exposure and speaking engagements at global events.
• Continued access to funding opportunities beyond the program.

Who Should Apply?

MIT Solve welcomes tech-based solutions at various stages of development, from prototypes to scaling businesses. The challenge is open to innovators from diverse backgrounds who are committed to creating a meaningful impact. Solutions can leverage cutting-edge technology, traditional knowledge systems, or a combination of both to address global health challenges.

Selection Criteria

Solutions will be evaluated based on:

• Alignment: How well the solution addresses the challenge using technology.
• Potential for Impact: The projected benefit to the target population.
• Feasibility: The practicality and sustainability of the implementation plan.
• Innovation: Novelty in technology, business model, or approach.
• Human-Centered Design: Involvement and impact on underserved communities.
• Scalability: The potential for financial viability and expansion.
• Partnership Potential: How the solution can benefit from MIT Solve’s network and resources.

How to Apply

Applications are open from February 3, 2025, at 9:00 AM EST and close on April 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM EDT. Prospective applicants should begin their submissions early, as completing the application requires several hours of preparation.

Join the Movement for Global Health Equity

If you have an innovative solution that can revolutionize healthcare accessibility and improve health outcomes, this challenge is your opportunity to make a lasting impact. By leveraging technology, we can create a future where quality healthcare is accessible to all.

Submit your solution today and become part of the global movement for health equity.

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