MIT Solve runs annual Global Challenges that seek innovative, human-centered, tech-based solutions to global problems. Through open innovation, Solve looks for a diverse portfolio of solutions across geography and stage of development, and encourages people of all backgrounds to apply. Teams selected through a Challenge become Solvers.
2027 Global Challenges:
| Challenge | Question |
|---|---|
| Global Learning | How can we close global education gaps while improving outcomes for every learner? |
| Global Climate | How can we equitably adapt to a warming climate and decarbonize how we live and eat? |
| Global Health | How can we use technology to make good health and quality care more equitable for all? |
| Global Economic Prosperity | How can we expand access to quality work, affordable housing, and financial resilience so that more people can build lasting prosperity? |
All four Challenges accept solutions from September 22, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. EDT to November 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. EST.
Who should apply:
Solve reviews solutions at the Prototype stage or later. A Prototype is an initial working version of a solution that may be getting initial feedback or testing with users. Concept-stage ideas are reviewed only under the separate Indigenous Communities Fellowship. Solutions can be at the Prototype, Pilot, Growth, or Scale stage.
What Solvers receive:
Solver teams receive an average of $40k each following selection, from a pool of more than $1M in prize funding, with further funding opportunities during the program year and after. Solvers join a nine-month support program that includes tailored capacity-building workshops, leadership coaching, in-kind and pro bono resources such as software licenses and legal services, monitoring and evaluation support, and a network of impact-minded leaders, including MIT.
Time commitment:
Selected Solver teams should expect to commit approximately 25 hours over nine months, including coaching sessions, workshops, and virtual events, plus four days at Solver Orientation in Cambridge, MA (April) and four days at Solve Challenge Finals in New York City (September).
Official sources: