Winners Announced!
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Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge 2022

$1 Million USD in Prizes

Calling All #TechForGood Startups

How can your early-stage innovative technology solution solve the world’s most pressing social and environmental problems?

Power an Inclusive Future for All


Cisco is committed to positively impacting 1 billion people by 2025. As part of our work, we seek to inspire and empower a generation of global problem solvers who will not only survive – but thrive – in our increasingly digital economy. With digital technologies connecting devices and data, good ideas now have the ability to make a difference more quickly than ever before – and we’re here to help.

Our 6th Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge aims to recognize new business ideas that leverage technology for social impact from early-stage entrepreneurs around the world. 

$1,000,000 USD in prize money will help accelerate the adoption of breakthrough technology, products, and services that drive economic development and/or solve social or environmental problems.


Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to every participant! Read our 2022 winner's announcement, and watch the awards show

Prizes

  • $250,000 USD Grand Prize

    A single team will be designated the grand prize winner.

  • $75,000 USD Regional First Runners-Up

    Three teams from around the world (Americas, EMEA and APJC) will be designated the regional first runners-up and will receive $75,000 USD each.

  • $50,000 USD Second Runners-Up

    Three teams will be designated the second runners-up and will receive $50,000 USD each.

  • $10,000 USD People's Choice

    The finalist entry that receives the most votes will receive the People’s Choice Award.

  • $15,000 USD Cisco Employees' Choice

    The finalist entry that receives the most votes will receive the Cisco Employees' Choice Award.

Special Prizes

  • $100,000 USD Climate Impact & Regeneration Prize

    A single team will be designated as the winner of this prize.

  • $50,000 USD Climate Impact & Regeneration Prize Runners-Up

    Four teams will be designated as the winners of this prize.

  • $50,000 USD HBCU Startup Prize

    A single team will be designated as the winner of this prize.

More detail about the prizes can found here.

Why should you participate?

In addition to a cash infusion to develop your solution, it will be reviewed by Cisco technology experts and high-profile judges. You’ll receive peer and industry validation for your solution, as well as have a great opportunity for global recognition and publicity. 

Should you enter?

Want more information about the $1M USD Cisco Global Problem Solver Challenge or tips on how to produce a winning pitch video? Watch our most recent webinar, where a team of experts share best practices and answer questions about the Challenge. Watch here

  • Applications Open

    November 30, 2021
  • Applications Close Feb 11 at 5 pm PT

    February 11, 2022
  • Semi-Finalists Invited to Submit

    April 26, 2022
  • Semi-Finalist Submissions Close May 20 at 5 pm PT

    May 20, 2022
  • Finalists Announced and People's Choice Voting Opens

    July 5, 2022
  • People's Choice Voting Closes

    July 29, 2022
  • Winners Announced

    August 23, 2022

By the Numbers


Meet Our Past Winners!