The United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies
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PRESS RELEASE
ITU takes ITU Digital World Awards online for 2020 to support innovative tech SMEs 
Awards will recognize innovative tech solutions, build resilience and foster investment in creative SMEs in times of crisis
Geneva, 18 August 2020 – ​​​ITU has opened applications for the ITU Digital World SME Virtual Awards 2020, which will take place online for the first time. The awards will help innovative small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) hone pitching skills, showcase solutions, make key connections, foster investment and gain valuable United Nations recognition, all by virtual means.

Open to any SME worldwide, the awards seek out innovations in four different categories:

• Connectivity
• Smart cities, smart living
• E-health
• Digital finance

All eligible applicants will be able to join a virtual programme of masterclasses, with shortlisted entrants then able to pitch live online to an expert jury of investors, business and tech specialists. Winners will receive UN recognition, online visibility, a certificate of achievement, and an access pass to join the ITU Digital World 2021 in Ha Noi, Viet Nam, in the last quarter of 2021 to take part in the event’s SME programme in person.

“The COVID-19 crisis has underlined the importance of digital technologies in our lives, and now, more than ever, fast-moving, responsive and innovative tech SMEs need our help to keep their creative ideas flowing. I therefore encourage talented SMEs from across the globe to enter the ITU Digital World SME Virtual Awards, and benefit from this valuable platform of knowledge sharing, networking and visibility”, said ITU Secretary-General Houlin Zhao...
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About the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the specialized United Nations agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 193 Member States and a membership of over 900 companies, universities, and international and regional organizations. Established over 150 years ago in 1865, ITU is the intergovernmental body responsible for coordinating the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promoting international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, improving communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishing the worldwide standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communications systems. From broadband networks to cutting-edge wireless technologies, aeronautical and maritime navigation, radio astronomy, oceanographic and satellite-based earth monitoring as well as converging fixed-mobile phone, Internet and broadcasting technologies, ITU is committed to connecting the world. For more information, visit www.itu.int
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