In the era of digital transformation, development, and innovation, 2.6 billion people worldwide still have limited or no access to the Internet. IdeaSpace, an ideas platform from Salzburg Research, is holding a new ideas competition to find innovative solutions to the digital divide, which is most prevalent in marginalized communities.

Recent developments in AI and digitalization have given rise to a wide variety of digital tools. While these tools are extremely helpful and powerful, they are often designed only for people who already have internet access. Even when access is available, digital tools are often not developed in a socially inclusive or locally relevant way. For instance, AI systems are frequently trained using data that does not represent marginalized communities, resulting in responses and contributions that are biased or less advantageous to those who need them.

The new ideas competition on the IdeaSpace ideas platform from Salzburg Research is looking worldwide for feasible ideas on how digital tools can empower marginalized people, promote equal opportunities, and benefit everyone. The competition is being run on behalf of ICT4D.at, whose mission is to enable individuals to fulfill their potential by providing them with knowledge, tools, and networks.

Solutions for a comprehensive challenge

Until 7 January 2026, the ideas can be submitted, focusing on one, several, or other aspects:

• Affordability
• Accessibility
• Digital literacy
• Locally relevant content
• Joint design with marginalized people

The ideas competition aims to generate proposals that will create open opportunities for those who are most often underrepresented, including people in extreme poverty, people with disabilities, women and girls, indigenous populations, and displaced persons.

The Wheel of Privilege can provide a clearer picture of which target groups could benefit from the ideas and demonstrate how digital solutions can contribute to a fairer distribution of opportunities.

Valuable awards and future opportunities

At IdeaSpace, we focus on creative ideas. The most promising proposals are awarded prizes and actively supported in their implementation:

🏆Valuable rewards for the three best ideas

🚀Up to 5,000 € in project funding from ICT4D.at to implement your idea

💡Mentoring program (February – April 2026, optional)

🔧Participation in the ICT4D.at Project Forge 2026 (online, February 2026, optional)

Submit your ideas and help create open opportunities for everyone and support marginalized people in the digital space!

Be a part of something big – it’s that easy!

Salzburg Research’s IdeaSpace ideas platform is all about your ideas! Help us solve questions and problems by submitting your ideas, working on ideas with other creative minds, and getting honest feedback. We welcome everyone, because good ideas know no boundaries! Discover the power of the network that connects you with like-minded people, experts and exciting institutions and companies.
Join in and shape the future together with us in the IdeaSpace!