posted by Karen Hampson
I have noticed a preponderance of competitions lately. I think they are useful to know about for (at least) two reasons: they provide an opportununity for organisations to access funding or other support, and they are a source of inspiration and good ideas for the rest of us.
Here is a quick round-up of some I found interesting:
Development Marketplace. This is administered by the World Bank, and they run various regional and global competitions. I found some of the 26 winners of the 2009 global competition related to climate change, "100 ideas to save the planet", really interesting and inspiring. Many are related to sustainable agriculture, and count on the participation of indigenous peoples. 
The Global Social Benefit Incubator (GSBI™) focuses on social entrepreneurs, ranging from education initiatives to ICT initiatives and projects related to economic developement and equality. The 2009 winners were a mixed bunch of creative ideas. Those selected have access to long-distance mentors, giving support to develop and improve their ideas, project or programme.
The SEED Initiative aims to support locally-driven enterprises in sustainable development. Award winners come from all over the world. The website is clear and easy to read and you can sign up to receive newsletters to stay informed about announcements.
World Challenge 09 is also interesting - it is organised by Shell, Newsweek and BBC World News, and aims at supporting enterprising and innovative local businesses or projects. Twelve projects have been announced as finalists, with the winner to be announced in December. I enjoyed the one from Indonesia, about preparing organic compost from the tons of organic waste produced in vegetable markets.
Finally, a new competition: the Louis Malassis International Scientific Prize for Agriculture and Food. This is a prize awarded to individuals, recognising "their exemplary and promising contribution in promoting agricultural innovation in order to improve food and agricultural systems sustainability". Nominations are open until January 20, 2010. 
All the sites contain lots of information about past winners and future competitions. Did I miss any other competitions? Let me know if you are aware of or represent a similar contest, and I will add you in here. Email me at: k.hampson (at) ileia.nl  or add your comment below.