Category 01 · Impact in Action Awards 2026
Technology & Innovation
Technology-led solutions that address meaningful economic, social or environmental challenges.
Purpose
What this category recognises
Recognises the use of technology to solve real problems at scale — from digital platforms and data tools to hardware and process innovation — where the solution is in use and creating measurable benefit.
Eligible nominees
- Start-ups and growth-stage companies
- Established businesses with a distinct innovation
- Research or social enterprises with deployed solutions
Eligibility rules
- Solution must be operational, not only at prototype stage
- Evidence of users or beneficiaries reached
- Activity must be in Africa or an emerging market
Examples
- A digital platform improving farmers' access to markets
- An off-grid energy technology deployed in underserved communities
- A health-tech tool improving diagnosis or referral
Assessment criteria
How nominations are assessed
01
Impact & outcomes
Evidence of positive change and relevance to category.
02
Innovation
Originality, practicality and effectiveness.
03
Sustainability
Continuity, resilience and long-term value.
04
Inclusion
Reach, accessibility and consideration of underserved groups.
05
Scalability
Potential to expand or be adapted elsewhere.
06
Leadership & governance
Accountability, ethics and quality of execution.
Nominate in this category Deadline: 14 November 2026