Imagine a world where technology helps solve the toughest problems

The 2011 theme is Imagine a world where technology helps solve the toughest problems. It may sound lofty. And perhaps a little ambitious. But when it comes down to it, this theme couldn't be more relevant. 

While it's not a requirement to base your entry on the resources below, we hope you use them as starting points to promote change around the globe.  You have the power, know-how and skills to make the world a better place.  We cannot wait to see what you create!

Create an entry with real world impact! Learn about the Imagine Cup Solve This program.

United Nations Millennium Development Goals are:

 

The Millennium Development Goals were agreed upon by 189 nations around the world more than nine years ago. They encompass universally accepted human rights such as freedom from hunger, the right to basic education, the right to health, and a responsibility to future generations. Now less than four years from the date of 2015 by which the Millennium Development Goals are to be achieved, it's time we made a difference.
To learn more about the Millennium Development Goals and other global issues, visit TakingITGlobal’s learning resources:

• Overall MDG Portal
• MDG Game
• Global Issues

Fast-forward to 2015. 

If the goals are achieved, our world will look a lot different. Here's how:

• More than 500 million people will be lifted out of extreme poverty.
• More than 300 million people will no longer suffer from hunger.
• Dramatic progress in child health will save 30 million children and more than 2 million mothers.
• More than 350 million people will have access to safe drinking water.

Imagine a world with less poverty, hunger, and disease, greater survival prospects for mothers and their infants, better educated children, equal opportunities for women, and a healthier environment; a world where developed and developing countries work in partnership for the betterment of all. Through Imagine Cup 2011, you can become part of the solution. 

Need more inspiration? Review these helpful links!

United Nations Millennium Development Goals:

• UN.org/MillenniumGoals
• MDGMonitor.org
• The United Nations Millennium Development Goals Report 2009 
• EndPoverty2015.org
• Information and Communications Technology for Development: Contributing to the Millennium Development Goals
• UN TV
• UN Radio

Designing Solutions for Social Development Problems:

• Out of Poverty, by Paul Polak
• NextBillion.net
• MobileActive.org

Microsoft Addresses the United Nations Millennium Development Goals:

• Digital Green
• Always With You
• Microsoft Research
• Microsoft's Pledge
• Meeting the Eighth Millennium Development Goal    
  • More than 650 million people will have the benefits of basic sanitation.
  • Hundreds of millions more women and girls will lead their lives in freedom, with more security and opportunity.