Call for Innovation in Smart Public Sanitation Facilities- FINISH Mondial Program

Published · Updated

The FINISH Mondial program is seeking innovation on public sanitation facilities.

The challenge 

Year over year, governments in low-income countries spend millions of euros in new construction of public and / or institutional sanitation facilities in places such as schools, hospitals and health centres, public markets etc. However, due to lack of regular maintenance and high operational costs many end up being not used. In addition, the following problems have been identified which make the public toilets expensive, unusable and unsustainable:

  • Lack of electricity
  • Inefficient use or lack of water
  • Structure damage
  • Frequent requirement for some retrofitting/maintenance and repair due to vandalism
  • Unpleasant/not welcoming to use

What are we looking for?

  • Major Improvements on existing systems or completely new ideas, created through novel design, choice materials, smart construction, that will help mitigate the maintenance and operational issues
  • Innovation of technology (software and sensor-based innovation) to monitor and help solve the maintenance issues is highly encouraged
  • Innovation must address all components of the toilet (user-interface, safe collection and its functionality)
  • Simplified and self-sustaining business model

Tips for Success

  • Toilet design integrated with tech features (IoT devices)
  • Inclusive solutions for children and disabled (e.g., ramp access, handrails for disabled- friendly toilets)

Important dates

  • Contest Launch: 22nd of Sept 2022
  • Last date for submission: 30 November 2022; 23:59 CET
  • Shortlist Announcement: 19 December 2022
  • Winners Announcement in a Live Virtual Event: 15 January 2023

Who can enter 

We welcome applications from a diverse range of candidates. You can apply as an individual or as part of a group (Research institution, academic institution, NGO, or entrepreneur). Participants with technical experience in toilet construction are encouraged to apply.

Prize

As winners, you will win prize money and a chance to implement your innovation on the field.

1. First prize: €5,000 + implementation of your solution in one of the FINISH Mondial
countries
2. Second prize: €3,000
3. Third prize: €2,000
4. Audience favorite (live voting during the virtual event): €2,500

For more information: https://finishmondial.org/3rd-san-hackathon-fm-annual-technical-sanitation-contest-2022/

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