Google announces Global Impact Award for Indian non-profits

Ahead of India’s Independence Day celebrations this week, Google announced to launch ‘Google Impact Challenge in India’, inviting Indian non-profits to tell how they would use technology to improve people’s lives. At the end of the challenge, four non-profits will each receive Rs. 3 crore Global Impact Award and technical assistance from Google to bring their projects to life, the California-based tech-giant announced on Monday.

“On the eve of India’s Independence Day, we’re celebrating the spirit of creativity and entrepreneurship of the world’s largest democracy by spotlighting the best local nonprofits that are using technology to make the world better,” Nikesh Arora, senior vice president and chief business officer, Google said on a blog post.

Mr. Arora said registered Indian non-profits can apply online until September 5. Googlers from India, and around the world, will review applications and announce the 10 best projects on October 21.

“You can learn more about the top 10 finalists then, and cast a vote for who you think should receive the Fan Favourite award,” Mr. Arora said.

“On October 31, I’ll join Ram Shriram, Jacquelline Fuller, Anu Aga and Jayant Sinha in Delhi to hear the 10 finalists pitch live. As judges, we’ll select three awardees based on their potential impact, scalability and ingenuity. We’ll also announce the winner of the Fan Favourite, according to your vote,” he wrote.

“Growing up in India, I’ve seen firsthand the vibrancy and innovativeness of India’s social entrepreneurs. I’m excited to see their projects and support their ideas for how to use technology and Rs 3 crores to change the world,” Mr. Arora wrote.