Applications call for GSMA Innovation Fund for Mobile Internet Adoption and Digital Inclusion. The GSMA Innovation Fund for Mobile Internet Adoption and Digital Inclusion aims to support innovative solutions to increasing mobile internet adoption and use for those currently not using mobile internet services. In addition to that, the GSMA Innovation Fund (“the Fund”) supports innovative start-ups or small to medium-sized private sector companies (SMEs) in emerging markets to achieve sustainable growth and improved socio-economic impact.

Areas 

The objective of the Fund is to support solutions that seek to address one or more of the following barriers to mobile internet adoption

• Accessibility: Innovations that improve the accessibility and usability of handsets and mobile internet services for citizens who are unable to access them. This will not include access to networks, electricity or IDs
• Affordability: Innovations which improve the affordability of handsets and mobile internet services
• Digital skills: Innovations which focus on improving basic digital skills and confidence to access and use mobile internet
• Safety and security: Innovations that focus on improving the safety and security of those who want to use mobile internet.

This will not include tackling issues of data privacy and fraud The Fund aims to support innovation that increases mobile internet adoption and usage for the underserved and those who are currently not using mobile internet services. The Fund is looking for start-ups or SMEs willing and able to work with mobile operators on projects which advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Benefits 

The GSMA Innovation Fund will

• Promote partnerships between mobile operators and start-ups or SMEs in order to increase the reach of innovative mobile services to low-income citizens.
• Test business models with the greatest potential for growth and impact in Asia and Africa.
• Provide lessons and examples on the ways in which mobile is driving positive socio-economic change.

Requirements 

In order to be eligible, the entries must

• Have active users and revenue in at least one eligible low- or middle-income market.
• Use or be planning to use mobile technology strategically.
• Have the potential and appetite to form strategic partnerships with mobile operators.
• Have a clear and measurable socio-economic impact, in particular: serving low-income citizens, rural populations, women and/or youth (see 3)
• Demonstrate how they will advance the SDGs.
• Be registered and operating in the country of project implementation. The applicant must also be registered in the country where they will receive the grant money; (if not the same as the implementation country).
• Be fully compliant with relevant business licensing, taxation, employee and other relevant regulations in all countries of operation
• Be compliant with all applicable laws including upholding/adhering to fundamental human rights; UK Modern Slavery Acts, Gender Equality Act, Child Protection Policies and all international labor standards.
• Have 50% matching funding for the total grant amount ‘in cash’ and/or ‘in-kind’.