Got a business idea? Take this leap.

Man jumping across a ravine holding a briefcase.
(Shutterstock)

The world improves one great idea at a time. Ask the Kenyan who turned a bicycle into a cellphone charger. Or the South African whose fire detection device saves poor residents’ homes. Or the female engineers with children who telework thanks to the online platform created by a Jordanian thinker.

The Tech-I competition, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, recognized these innovative solutions to community problems. If your idea’s as good, you’ve got until March 20 to enter the 2015 competition.

What is the Tech-I competition?

A contest to help entrepreneurs launch or grow their companies. Experts review all applications. A vote by the public determines the 30 finalists.

What types of ideas can be submitted?

Ideas must be a product or service with commercial potential in the areas of agriculture, energy, health or information and communication technology.

Am I eligible ?

You must be between 18 and 40 years old and be a citizen of an eligible country. U.S. residents or citizens cannot apply.

How to do I apply?

Submit an application online. It should include a summary (750 words in English) and promotional video (no longer than 90 seconds) explaining your idea. 

What do all finalists receive?

A free trip to the 2015 Global Entrepreneurship Summit (in an African city to be named) to compete for startup capital. All finalists earn three months of mentorship from successful entrepreneurs and membership in the American Association for the Advancement of Science.