Johnson & Johnson launches $600k global e-health challenge

International healthcare firm Johnson & Johnson has launched the GenH Challenge, a global social venture competition that will award a total of US$600,000 in cash prizes to locally-tailored and globally-relevant solutions to enduring health challenges.

The GenH Challenge is based on the notion that new thinking and new ways to apply everyday ideas can support those on the front lines of healthcare worldwide.

Organisations, both for-profit and non-profit, from all over the world can apply. Teams must include someone who works at the front lines of care, with Johnson & Johnson looking for organisations that are seed stage or early phase.

Six prizes will be awarded in total: a US$250,000 grand prize; a US$150,000 second prize; and four US$50,000 honourable mention prizes. All finalist teams will be invited to attend a free, one-week, skills-based workshop hosted by Johnson & Johnson to build capacity among finalist team members.

“The best ideas for the future of health can come from anyone, anywhere in the world. Pioneered by Johnson & Johnson, the GenH Challenge is a social innovation prize competition uniquely incentivising global entrepreneurs, innovators, and people on the front lines of health to join forces and tackle some of the world’s toughest health challenges,” the company said.

To be eligible to apply, ideas must have received under US$250,000 funding or been in development for five years or under.