Build With AI for Sustainable Growth:
Caucasus & Central Asia 2024 Hackathon
#BuildwithAI #IOExtended
Build With AI for Sustainable Growth: Harnessing Google’s Gemini AI for Environmental Solutions
In a world increasingly challenged by environmental issues, innovation is key to fostering sustainable growth. “Build With AI for Sustainable Growth” is an ambitious initiative designed to address these challenges by leveraging Google’s advanced AI model, Gemini, to create solutions for pressing sustainability and environmental protection issues in the countries of Central Asia and the Caucasus. The program has been active since March 2024, conducting a series of workshops and culminating in a final pitching event.
Program Overview
Firstly, the program consists of 27 workshops spread across six countries in Central Asia and the Caucasus, engaging over 900 developers and AI enthusiasts. These workshops focus on training participants to use AI technology to tackle critical issues such as air and water quality, pollution-related health problems, natural habitat degradation, water management, and food security. Participants receive hands-on experience with Google’s AI tools, fostering innovation and collaboration.
Secondly, the program concludes with a dynamic final pitching event. This event serves as a platform for participants to present their AI-driven solutions to a panel of experts, industry leaders, and potential investors. The event includes several sessions aimed at refining pitches and enhancing solution viability. Networking opportunities are abundant, allowing participants to connect with thought leaders and gain valuable feedback.
Impact and Goals
The “Build With AI for Sustainable Growth” initiative aims to empower the next generation of developers and innovators to tackle environmental challenges through cutting-edge AI technology. By fostering collaboration and creativity, the program seeks to drive impactful solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future in Central Asia and the Caucasus.
Through this initiative, Google reaffirms its commitment to leveraging technology for the greater good, paving the way for a new era of environmental innovation.
Program Focus Areas
Participants will develop solutions for:
- Air & Water Quality Improvement
- Mitigating Pollution-Related Health Issues
- Natural Habitat Degradation & Deforestation
- Water Management
- Agriculture & Food Security
Program Schedule
October 17, 2024
Arrival in Astana and check-in at designated accommodations.
October 18, 2024
Pitching Day Schedule:
Morning: Tour in Astana
Afternoon: Lunch/Pitch presentations to the jury
Evening: Networking sessions and awards ceremony
October 19, 2024
Departure from Astana.
To participate in the pitching selection for the final event in Astana, startups must first complete the full series of four workshops, conducted from August through September. These workshops are essential for equipping participants with the necessary knowledge, skills, and guidance to refine their ideas and pitches. Only after successfully completing all four workshops will startups be eligible for the pitching session, which will take place after the final workshop. This session is crucial, as it determines which startups will advance to the final event in Astana. The comprehensive preparation provided by the workshops ensures that participants are well-prepared to present their ideas effectively to the jury, significantly increasing their chances of being selected.
Program Stages
Online Workshops
Dates:
August 24 – Saturday
August 30 – Friday
September 7 – Saturday
September 14 – Saturday
Hackathon
Date: Early October 2024
Location: Astana, Kazakhstan
Networking
Final Event: Includes networking opportunities with peers and industry leaders.
Prize Fund
1st Place: $5000
2nd Place: $2500
3rd Place: $500
Workshop Details
Workshop 1: August 24, 2024
Astana Time: 16:00
Topic: AI Technical – Technical Assessment Criteria
Led by: Askar Aituov, Google Developer Relations Coordinator
Description: Gain insights into the technical evaluation criteria used to assess project submissions.
Topic: Sustainability – Exploration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Led by: Ainura Sagyn, sustainability expert with a focus on AI-driven solutions
Topic: How Lean Startup Is Powering Startups in Silicon Valley & Beyond
Led by: Rhonda Shrader, Executive Director of the National Science Foundation Innovation Corps (NSF I-Corps)
Workshop 2: August 30, 2024
Astana Time: 16:00
Topic: AI Technical – How to Deploy Applications on Google Cloud
Led by: Enes Turan, Google Cloud Expert
Description: Learn how to effectively deploy your AI-powered solutions on Google Cloud.
Topic: Deploying Green Tech Solutions: Case Studies.
Led by: Ainura Sagyn, sustainability expert with a focus on AI-driven solutions
Topic: Startup Life – Customer as the Center of your Universe
Led by: Colin Donohue, CEO at Kernel
Workshop 3: September 7, 2024
Astana Time: 16:00
Topic: AI Technical – Prototyping with Google AI Studio
Led by: Oliya Rakhmatova, GDG Organizer
Description: Explore Google AI Studio and gain hands-on experience prototyping your AI solutions.
Topic: Sustainability – Green Grabbing: Clashes of Sustainability Goals
Led by: Warathida Chaiyapa, Assistant Professor at Chiang Mai University School of Public Policy
Topic: Startup – Preparing for Pitches
Led by: Gulnaza Khalmanbetova, expert in startup growth and pitch preparation.
Workshop 4: September 14, 2024
Astana Time: 16:00
AI Technical: From Data to Decisions: Simple AI Model using Vertex AI
Led by: Adham Zokhirov, Google Developer Expert in AI/ML | AI TeamLead @ Mohirdev
Sustainability: From Climate Crisis to Circular Economy: Adapting EU Climate Strategies
Led by: Eva Bille, Director at Hill & Knowlton, EU Policy
Startup Business Models – Mastering Your Pitch: Presenting with Impact and Navigating Complex Questions with Confidence.
Led by: Gauthier Vasseur, Executive Director – Berkeley Fisher Center, CEO and Founder – Data Wise Academy, Founder and Co-President – Alliance for Inclusive AI
Pitching Day
Date: Early October 2024
Location: Astana, Kazakhst
Eligibility Criteria
Region: Caucasus & Central Asia
Countries: Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan
Age: 18+ years old
Participation: Individual, pairs, or groups
Selection Process
Criteria: Innovative proposals and commitment to sustainable development.
Jury: Includes experts from Google, StrategEast, and Astana Hub.
Selection Deadline: August 15, 2024
Travel and Accommodation
Covered Costs: Travel to/from Astana and accommodation for selected participants.
Attendance: Mandatory for obtaining certificates of participation and pitching.
Why Participate?
This program offers a unique chance to learn from industry experts, enhance your AI skills, and contribute to solving significant regional challenges. Apply now to be part of a forward-thinking initiative that combines technology and sustainability.
Final Pitching Day: October 18, 2024
Location: Astana Hub, Astana, Kazakhstan
Arrival: October 17, 2024
Departure: October 19, 2024
Overview
The “Build With AI for Sustainable Growth” hackathon culminates with an exciting final pitching event on October 18, 2024, at Astana Hub in Astana, Kazakhstan. This event marks the grand finale of an ambitious series of workshops and hackathons aimed at developing innovative AI-driven solutions for environmental and sustainability challenges in Central Asia and the Caucasus.
During this final event, selected startups will have the opportunity to present their solutions to a distinguished panel of experts, industry leaders, and potential investors. The day will feature dynamic pitch sessions, feedback from a jury, and valuable networking opportunities with peers, mentors, and key stakeholders.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
To be eligible for the final pitching day, startups must:
- Complete All Four Workshops: Startups must have participated in all four workshops conducted between August and September 2024. Attendance will be verified via registration links and attendance sheets.
- Submit a Final Pitch Deck: Participants must provide a final pitch deck that adheres to the guidelines provided during the workshops.
- Participate in Pre-Pitch Preparation: Selected startups must engage in pre-pitch preparation sessions designed to refine their presentations and solutions.
- Meet the Solution Criteria: Solutions must meet the following criteria to be considered for the final pitch:
-
Impact (25 Points)
-
- Challenge Definition: Clearly define the problem using a concise problem statement. (5 Points)
- Alignment with UN SDGs: Clearly identify which UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) the solution targets and why. (5 Points)
- User Feedback and Iteration: Demonstrate three points of feedback received from real users, describe the testing process, and show evidence of iteration based on feedback. (5 Points)
- Problem-Solution Fit: Ensure the solution addresses the identified challenge, using metrics, goals, and outcomes to showcase success. (5 Points)
- Scalability and Future Steps: Provide a clear plan for future scaling and extension to a larger audience. (5 Points)
-
Technology (25 Points)
-
- Technical Architecture: Clearly describe the architecture, high-level components, and Google technology used, explaining their relevance to the solution. (5 Points)
- Implementation Completeness: Ensure all necessary technical components are implemented to solve the challenge. (5 Points)
- Code Testing and Challenges: Highlight a key challenge encountered while coding, the resolution process, and any relevant technical decisions or implementations. (5 Points)
- Demo Presentation: Provide a video demonstration of a working application, showing user interaction and effective use of Google technology. (5 Points)
- Scalability: Demonstrate the solution’s ability to support more users and scale effectively. (5 Points)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the deadline for final pitch deck submission?
The final pitch deck must be submitted by September 30, 2024, to allow time for review and feedback.
2. Will travel and accommodation costs be covered?
Yes, air tickets and accommodation costs will be covered for all selected participants attending the final pitching event in Astana.
3. What should the pitch deck include?
Your pitch deck should include the problem statement, solution overview, alignment with UN SDGs, user feedback and iteration, technical details, and future scalability plans.
4. Can teams edit their submissions after the deadline?
No, all submissions are final after the October 10, 2024, deadline. However, feedback will be provided during pre-pitch preparation sessions to help refine your pitch.
5. What if I miss one of the workshops?
Attendance at all four workshops is mandatory to qualify for the final pitching session. Exceptions are made only under exceptional circumstances, and participants contact us.
6. How will the jury evaluate the pitches?
Pitches will be evaluated based on the criteria outlined above, including impact, technology, and overall solution viability.
7. What are the key components of a strong problem statement?
A strong problem statement should clearly define who is experiencing the problem, what the problem is, where and when it occurs, and why it is important to address, using concise language and relevant data.
8. How will networking sessions be organized?
Networking sessions will take place after the pitch presentations and during breaks, allowing participants to interact with peers, mentors, industry leaders, and potential investors.
9. What are the award categories and prizes?
The top three teams will be awarded as follows:
1st Place: $5,000
2nd Place: $2,500
3rd Place: $500
10. How can participants prepare for pre-pitch sessions?
Participants will receive guidance from mentors on refining their pitch decks, practicing their presentations, and addressing key areas for improvement.
11. Will there be additional mentoring sessions before the final pitch?
Yes, there will be dedicated mentoring sessions to help participants fine-tune their pitches and solutions.
12. How many participants will be selected?
21 participants will be selected, with 3 participants representing each country.
13. Will all team members be invited to participate in the final hackathon?
No, only one person from each team who can pitch on behalf of the team will be invited to participate in the final hackathon.
14. How many days will we spend in Astana?
The duration of the stay in Astana will be two nights and three days, including arrival and departure. A detailed agenda to be provided.
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