Last year the BT Ingenious Award set out to highlight those who are using technology in a truly innovative way. Our panel of judges were looking for new ideas that make a real difference in the world, and people who were thinking creatively and going one step beyond, whether it be within a local community or nationwide. From a long list of entries they chose three inspiring finalists, and crowned what3words the winner of the BT Ingenious Award 2015.
Around 75% of the world is not adequately addressed – that could be 4 billion people who are invisible; unable to report crime, receive deliveries or aid, or exercise their human rights. Living conditions cannot be monitored, schools and refugee camps remain unaddressed. what3words set out to remedy this.
Assigning a unique combination of three words, they have accurately delivered a way of identifying a 3m x 3m square, anywhere on the planet. An incredibly simple solution to a life-threatening problem.
Giles Rhys Jones, Director of Marketing at what3words, says that winning the Award sparked an incredible year for them:
“Winning the BT Ingenious Award kick started a year of immense growth for us. We are being used by aid organisations, travel guides, emergency response systems and delivery companies around the world, and have attracted investment from Intel Capital & Horizons Ventures. We also won the Grand Prix for Innovation at the Cannes Lions Festival and were awarded a Social Development Laureate by The Tech Awards in Silicon Valley. We have got coverage from The Washington Post, The BBC, The FT & The Guardian, have opened offices in Nairobi and San Francisco, and almost doubled the team.
“If you’re considering whether to enter or not, I would encourage you to – and take your time to get it right. The rigour of the entry process forces you to be concise, and the benefits of meeting likeminded people at the events, and the exposure if you are shortlisted or win, is fantastic.”
To find out more about their fantastic work, visit the what3words website.
Entry for AbilityNet’s Tech4Good Awards 2016 opens on 15th March – sign up to our newsletter to find out how you can enter, or how you can nominate someone else.
