2025 WITSA Global Awards * Εκδήλωση ενδιαφέροντος υποψηφιότητας μέχρι τις 4/4/2025
Σας ενημερώνουμε ότι ο WITSA, στο πλαίσιο των δραστηριοτήτων του, προχωρά - και φέτος - στη διοργάνωση των 2025 WITSA Global Awards, τα οποία είναι τιμητικές διακρίσεις, που αναγνωρίζουν την αξιοσημείωτη συνεισφορά στον τομέα της τεχνολογίας και της καινοτομίας. Τα βραβεία αναδεικνύουν πρόσωπα, οργανισμούς, εταιρείες ή κυβερνητικά έργα, που έχουν προωθήσει σημαντικά την παγκόσμια βιομηχανία τεχνολογίας. Στόχος τους να αναδείξουν τη μεταμορφωτική δύναμη της τεχνολογίας σε διάφορους τομείς, όπως η υγειονομική περίθαλψη, η εκπαίδευση, τα οικονομικά, η διακυβέρνηση και η βιωσιμότητα.
Η ετήσια τελετή απονομής συγκεντρώνει ηγέτες τεχνολογίας, επαγγελματίες, κυβερνητικούς αξιωματούχους και συμμετέχοντες από όλο τον κόσμο, διευκολύνοντας τη δικτύωση και τη συνεργασία. Αναγνωρίζοντας τα εξαιρετικά επιτεύγματα στην τεχνολογία και την καινοτομία, τα βραβεία παρακινούν τη βιομηχανία να αγωνιστεί για αριστεία και να ξεπεράσει τα όρια του δυνατού. Αναδεικνύουν τους νικητές, ενώ ενθαρρύνουν ολόκληρο τον κλάδο να συνεχίσει να προάγει την τεχνολογία προς όφελος της ανθρωπότητας.
Τα WITSA Global Awards αποτελούν μια σημαντική αναγνώριση της τεχνολογικής καινοτομίας και του κοινωνικού αντίκτυπου, λειτουργώντας ως καταλύτης για θετικές αλλαγές σε παγκόσμια κλίμακα, ενισχύοντας τη συνεργασία και εμπνέοντας τη βιομηχανία να οδηγήσει σε επιτεύγματα, που διαμορφώνουν το μέλλον. Απονέμονται σε επιλεγμένα άτομα, ακαδημαϊκά ιδρύματα, εταιρείες, ΜΚΟ ή κυβερνήσεις, των οποίων η χρήση και οι εφαρμογές των ψηφιακών τεχνολογιών παρουσιάζουν εξαιρετικά επιτεύγματα στις ακόλουθες κατηγορίες:
ΚΑΤΗΓΟΡΙΕΣ ΒΡΑΒΕΙΩΝ
- Digital Opportunity (1 Award: Private Sector, NGO, Government)
- Smart Cities (1 Award: Private Sector, NGO, Government)
- Cybersecurity (1 Award: Private Sector, NGO, Government)
- Innovative eHealth (1 Award: Private Sector, NGO, Government)
- Public/Private Partnership (1 Award: Private Sector, NGO, Government)
- Digital Talent Development (1 Award: Private Sector, NGO, Government)
- Emerging Digital Solutions (1 Award: Private Sector)
- Tech Investment Excellence (1 Award: Private Sector, Government)
- Startup Ecosystems (1 Award: Private Sector, Government)
- AI Excellence (1 Award: Private Sector, NGO)
- AI for Good (1 Award: Private Sector, NGO, Government)
- Digital Transformation of the Year (1 Award: Private Sector, NGO, Government)
- Women in Tech (1 Award: Private Sector, NGO, Government).
Ο ΣΕΠΕ, ως μέλος του WITSA (από το 1996), έχει προσκληθεί και φέτος να υποβάλει την πρόταση του για ελληνικές υποψηφιότητες στα “2025 WITSA Global Awards”, τα οποία αναμένονται να παρουσιαστούν σε ειδική τελετή τον Αύγουστο 2025.
Ως εκ τούτου, καλούνται οι επιχειρήσεις - μέλη του ΣΕΠΕ, που ενδιαφέρονται να υποβάλουν υποψηφιότητα, σύμφωνα με τις κατηγορίες και τα δεδομένα που θέτει ο WITSA, να δηλώσουν το ενδιαφέρον συμμετοχής τους, μέχρι την Παρασκευή 4 Απριλίου 2025.
Με δεδομένο ότι μπορούν να υποβληθούν μέχρι και 3 υποψηφιότητες/ανά κατηγορία από κάθε μέλος του WITSA, οι προτάσεις που θα υποβληθούν στον ΣΕΠΕ, θα αξιολογηθούν, προκειμένου να γίνει η τελική επιλογή και υποβολή των ελληνικών υποψηφιοτήτων προς τον WITSA.
Οι ενδιαφερόμενες επιχειρήσεις θα πρέπει να στείλουν στη Γραμματεία του ΣΕΠΕ (e-mail: info@sepe.gr) συμπληρωμένη το έντυπο εκδήλωσης ενδιαφέροντος. Στη συνέχεια, για τις υποψηφιότητες που θα προκριθούν, θα ζητηθεί το προβλεπόμενο υλικό για την υποβολή των υποψηφιοτήτων στον WITSA.
Για το έντυπο εκδήλωσης ενδιαφέροντος, πατήστε ΕΔΩ.
ΚΑΤΗΓΟΡΙΕΣ ΒΡΑΒΕΙΩΝ
Digital Opportunity Award
Individuals, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs, or Government authorities
Award Criteria: Individuals, corporations, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs or government authorities that have made a remarkable and successful effort at providing digital opportunities to those in need are eligible for this award. In order for the Digital Age to fulfill its promise, it must consider the unique challenges faced by diverse populations. Examples could include deployment of ICTs and Internet access among inner city populations, or in towns, rural areas or cities in developing and least-developed countries. This award also includes programs and initiatives that aid people with disabilities and others who face longstanding barriers to social inclusion. Digital Inclusion is defined as the “ability of individuals and groups to access and use digital technologies (ICTs). Digital inclusion encompasses not only access to the Internet but also the availability of hardware and software; relevant content and services; and training for the digital literacy skills required for effective use of tech.”
This award recognizes solutions enabling accessibility for those individuals who have traditionally not benefited from digital tech. This award also seeks innovative solutions that create meaningful employment through tech for those who have traditionally been underrepresented in the labor force. Of particular interest to WITSA are applications that embed inclusion and accessibility in the original design as opposed to retrofitting existing applications.
Smart Cities Award
Individuals, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs, or Government authorities
Award Criteria: A smart city is an urban area that uses different types of electronic methods and sensors to collect data. Insights gained from that data are used to manage assets, resources and services efficiently; in return, that data is used to improve the operations across the city (ref. Wikipedia). This includes data collected from citizens, devices, buildings and assets that is then processed and analyzed to monitor and manage traffic and transportation systems, power plants, utilities, water supply networks, waste, crime detection, information systems, schools, libraries, hospitals, and other community services. The smart city concept integrates digital technologies, and various physical devices connected to the IoT (Internet of things) network to optimize the efficiency of city operations and services and connect to citizens.
Smart city technology allows city officials to interact directly with both community and city infrastructure and to monitor what is happening in the city and how the city is evolving. Digital tech is used to enhance quality, performance and interactivity of urban services, to reduce costs and resource consumption and to increase contact between citizens and government. Smart city applications are developed to manage urban flows and allow for real-time responses. A smart city may therefore be more prepared to respond to challenges than one with a simple "transactional" relationship with its citizens. The award goes to individuals, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs, or Government authorities:
Corporations: Outstanding Smart City industry solutions, including in digital administration, best industry solutions in civic and community engagement and transparency, including Open Data, city portals, and emergency services, best industry initiatives in the area of digital equity and accessibility including technologies for disability compliance, innovations in accessibility services, public Wi-Fi, and other projects focused on underserved communities, automation and systems integration to measure, monitor, control, and optimize building operations and to use energy in the most efficient and cost-effective way, reducing challenges and costs related to water stress, systemic inefficiency, and water loss while improving asset management and customer services, industry initiatives in the field of transportation, including autonomous cars, connected vehicles, and smart public transit, smart parking, smart infrastructure, intelligent traffic management, multi-modal transport hubs, journey planning and ride-hailing/ride-sharing services.
Government authorities: Outstanding Smart City government projects, including the best projects in digital administration, best projects in civic and community engagement and transparency, including Open Data, city portals, and emergency services, best initiatives in the area of digital equity and accessibility including technologies for disability compliance, innovations in accessibility services, public Wi-Fi, and other projects focused on underserved communities, automation and systems integration to measure, monitor, control, and optimize building operations and to use energy in the most efficient and cost-effective way, reducing challenges and costs related to water stress, systemic inefficiency, and water loss while improving asset management and customer services, initiatives in the field of transportation, including autonomous cars, connected vehicles, and smart public transit, smart parking, smart infrastructure, intelligent traffic management, multi-modal transport hubs, journey planning and ride-hailing/ride-sharing services.
Cybersecurity Award
Individuals, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs, or Government authorities
Award Criteria: This prestigious award recognizes outstanding achievements in the realm of cybersecurity, specifically focusing on products and solutions that demonstrate excellence in Zero Trust architecture, ransomware mitigation, and/or data privacy. Recipients will showcase innovative approaches that yield proven, scalable results and possess significant global impact potential. Eligible candidates include individuals, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs, and government entities who have made substantial contributions to advancing the security posture of organizations and individuals worldwide. The award seeks to highlight solutions that effectively address the evolving threat landscape, offering robust defenses against cyberattacks and ensuring the responsible handling of sensitive data.
Innovative eHealth Award
Individuals, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs, or Government authorities
Award Criteria: This Award recognizes Individuals, healthcare institutions, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs or governments that have made remarkable and successful efforts at utilizing digital technologies as a tool to promote health and health care such as telehealth, mHealth (mobile health), eHealth or through eLearning, electronic health records, big data, legal frameworks, or social media. Solutions utilized may range from provision of information to keep citizens healthy, to support for public health in communities, care and support systems in health facilities, and from all the above the data needed to inform management and policymakers.
This award also recognizes any companies, individuals, NGOs or other entities who successfully develop or utilize digital tech, artificial intelligence, big data or other innovative technologies. Examples of solutions include vaccine distribution/logistics, vaccine digital certification or other telehealth apps, as well as technologies and solutions which enable productive and safe workspace.
Public/Private Partnership Award
Private sector/corporations and government authorities
Award Criteria: This award recognizes successful partnerships between government and private sector entities in digital tech. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are a mechanism for governments to procure and implement public information infrastructure and/or services using the resources and expertise of the private sector. Where governments are facing ageing or lack of infrastructure and require more efficient services, a partnership with the private sector can help foster new solutions and bring finance. PPPs combine the skills and resources of both the public and private sectors through sharing of risks and responsibilities. This enables governments to benefit from the expertise of the private sector, and allows them to focus instead on policy, planning and regulation by delegating day-to-day operations.
PPPs can also help address longstanding barriers to the inclusion of persons with disabilities and the intersection with technological advancements, mitigate the negative effects from trade and technology change, as well as combatting cybercrime by leveraging multi-stakeholder partnerships to drive durable solutions and improve cooperation with industry and other stakeholders through information sharing initiatives, capacity-building programs, by employing responsible and equitable security vulnerability disclosure and remediation practices, and by jointly fostering technology innovations and investments that address global security challenges.
Other areas of private-public partnerships include new partnership opportunities with the tech sector to deliver the technological transportation breakthroughs of tomorrow. PPPs can also help develop Local Innovation Ecosystems: The success of innovations often depends on the strength and development of the local innovation ecosystem, and public-private partnerships as government tools can effectively build ecosystems in a short period of time.
The award will recognize a large-scale program or project where a government authority has successfully procured and implemented public information infrastructure and/or services using the resources and expertise of the private sector.
Digital Talent Development Award
Individuals, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs, or Government authorities
Award Criteria: The "digital talent development" award celebrates excellence in initiatives that significantly advance digital skills, preparing them for the modern workforce. These awards highlight effective programs that cultivate technical proficiencies like coding and data analysis, alongside digital literacy and adaptability to emerging technologies. Key selection criteria include demonstrable impact, such as improved participant skills and organizational performance, as well as contributions to closing the digital skills gap. Innovation is also paramount, with judges favoring creative training methods, cutting-edge technology integration, and scalable solutions.
Furthermore, accessibility and inclusivity are crucial, recognizing efforts to reach diverse populations and promote digital equity. Sustainability, demonstrated by long-term commitment and adaptability, is highly valued. Relevance to current and future digital demands is also a key factor. The award emphasizes a strong learning culture and strategic alignment with business goals. Ultimately, this award aims to recognize and promote best practices that ensure a skilled workforce capable of thriving in the digital age.
Emerging Digital Solutions Award
Individuals, academic institutions, corporations, or NGOs
Award Criteria: The Emerging Digital Solutions winner is selected for their proven and scalable innovative digital solutions capable of transforming the wellbeing, prosperity, connectivity or productivity of others around the world.
This award will take into consideration the successful application of digital technologies in such areas as humanitarianism, health, social awareness and justice, rule of law, sustainable growth, business and commerce, health care, education, as well as the effective delivery of public services and transparency.
The Emerging Digital Solutions program recognizes early-stage or veteran companies whose solutions are new, and scalable to other locations throughout the world. The Emerging Digital Solutions program is looking for solutions that can be presented to interested policy makers, investors, corporations and social stakeholders with the potential to boost its development and deployment, aiming to significantly impact individuals, groups and societies.
Tech Investment Excellence Award
Award: VCs, tech ecosystem economic development agencies
The Tech Investment Excellence Award recognizes venture capital firms and tech ecosystem development authorities that have demonstrated exceptional foresight and execution in driving technological innovation and economic growth. This prestigious award celebrates VC firms and agencies that have not only identified and invested in groundbreaking technologies but also fostered environments conducive to their success. Whether through strategic programs and incentives that nurture startups, impactful foreign direct investment (FDI) or domestic direct investment (DDI) initiatives that create jobs and stimulate regional economies, or other demonstrably impactful contributions, these organizations stand as exemplars of visionary investment. Their commitment to building sustainable ecosystems and supporting transformative ventures sets a new standard for the venture capital industry.
Recipients of this award have consistently shown a profound understanding of market dynamics and a keen ability to anticipate future trends. Their investments have resulted in significant advancements in critical sectors, driving technological progress and creating lasting societal benefits. Beyond financial returns, these firms or agencies have actively engaged in mentorship, knowledge sharing, and community building, solidifying their role as catalysts for innovation. Their dedication to responsible investment practices and their ability to navigate complex challenges while delivering exceptional results underscore their unwavering commitment to excellence and their profound impact on the global technology landscape.
Startup Ecosystem Award
Government authorities and VC Accelerators
Governments often play an important role in countries that have a successful startup ecosystem. When we think of startups and a great startup culture, we only imagine the crucial role that entrepreneurs play. But governments in startup economies have progressively played a critical role in developing a startup culture by creating better policies, reducing tax burden, easing migration of talented workers, having developed infrastructure, etc. Governments have also encouraged a culture of innovation and research by creating programs and educational institutions to create talent and tech developments in an economy. Such governments that have adapted with the times and encouraged startup development have helped raise the standard of living and economies of their countries.
Also, governments must be aware that they need to provide more support locally, not centrally. Hence, most state governments play an important role in executing policies and building a local startup ecosystem.
Furthermore, recognizing that robust startup ecosystems often benefit from diverse support structures, this award will also be open to venture capital accelerators that have demonstrated exceptional success in fostering and accelerating the growth of startups, alongside government authorities.
This award will recognize a government authority or venture capital accelerator that has succeeded in making their startup ecosystems successful.
AI Excellence Award
Award: Individuals, academic institutions, corporations, or NGOs
The Artificial Intelligence Excellence Award recognizes companies that are at the forefront of innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with AI. This award recognizes exceptional achievements and contributions in the field of artificial intelligence, demonstrating the awardee’s commitment to innovation, impact and overall contribution to the field of AI.
AI for Good
Award: Individuals, academic institutions, corporations, or NGOs, Governments
This award recognizes exceptional applications of artificial intelligence that demonstrate a remarkable and successful positive impact on society. It celebrates initiatives that go beyond technological innovation, showcasing how AI can be a powerful instrument for addressing critical social, humanitarian, and environmental challenges.
The project must provide clear evidence of its positive impact on communities, individuals, or the environment. The AI solution must align with ethical AI principles, including fairness, transparency, accountability, and privacy. The AI application should demonstrate innovative use of technology to solve real-world problems, must be effective and sustainable, with potential for scalability and long-term impact. Submissions must provide quantifiable data and evidence to support claims of social impact.
Digital Transformation of the Year Award
Individuals, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs, or Government authorities
This award recognizes the most effective project to integrate disparate systems or update legacy technology. Projects involving moves into the cloud, post-deal integrations, digitization efforts or partnerships and collaborations, are all eligible. Nominations may be for a single project or an overall strategy. The winning entry will be able to demonstrate how technology has brought cost benefits, improved internal processes and generated new opportunities.
Women in Tech Award
Individuals, academic institutions, corporations, NGOs, or Government authorities
As the leading global digital tech industry alliance, WITSA strongly believes that having a gender-balanced workforce across the tech sector strengthens the sector’s ability to retain its market position as the cornerstone of industry across global markets. Today, the digital tech sector, and indeed other industrial sectors, are limiting the talent pool, and bypassing some of the best and brightest by limited opportunities that affect half of the world’s population. By widening the talent pool to be more inclusive, the tech sector will continue to thrive and grow in both size and influence. As a fundamental principle, WITSA believes that by encouraging women to enter or return to the tech industry at all levels, the tech sector will become more robust, more competitive, and more innovative. WITSA and its members around the world are committed to this cause.
The Women in Tech Award will recognize the most influential women technology leaders who have demonstrated considerable experience in leading innovation and became leaders and role models in the tech industry, or the most impactful initiatives that foster greater inclusion and advancement of women leaders in the tech field.