Category 4: Social & Economic Development
4a. Best Product, Initiative or Service for Underserved Segments
Mobile is playing a critical role in improving the health, wealth, education and social inclusion of people throughout the world. From developed to developing countries, mobile is narrowing the digital divide faster and more effectively than any other form of communications technology today, at the same time making a vital contribution to the social and economic development of nations.
As the mobile world edges closer to 6 billion mobile connections, the opportunities to reach under-served communities and people - regardless of their age, language, disability, geographic location or economic status - are increasingly the focus of new and innovative business models and technology providers that are enabling win-win benefits for business, people and communities.
This category recognises mobile initiatives, programmes, products and services that have had a tangible effect in bridging the digital divide. From programmes, services, projects or initiatives that have 'connected the unconnected' by bringing affordable mobile voice and data communications to people for the very first time, to products and services that have had a proven effect on the empowerment of people, as well as their social and economic well-being. The impact on business productivity, job creation, social inclusion and learning can be seen in the lives of millions of people who have benefited from its transformative power.
The judges will shortlist five entries in this category, with one winner announced at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona on Tuesday 28th February 2012.
Eligibility:
This category is open to:
- Individuals and organisations
- Mobile network operators
- Manufacturers, suppliers, application developers
- NGOs and charities
- Entrepreneurs and business people
Judging criteria:
The judges will be considering a number of factors, such as:
- Genuine innovation in the product/service/initiative or business model to reach underserved market segments
- Demonstrate a positive, tangible impact for the target user
- Demonstrate sustainability
- Illustrate unique use of mobile
