03-03-2021 | 12:28 PM
India-Australia Circular Economy Hackathon (I-ACE)
Context
AIM and Australia’s national science agency (CSIRO) kick started the India-Australia Circular Economy (I-ACE) Hackathon, 2021 with the goal to enable talented innovative students and start-ups from India and Australia to address common national issues through innovative technology solutions.
Key Highlights
The concept of I-ACE joint Hackathon originated in the virtual bilateral summit between the Hon. Prime Minister of India and the Hon. Prime Minister of Australia, held on 4th June 2020, where they committed to joint circular economy innovation initiatives between the two countries.
The I-ACE was jointly organized by Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, Government of India and Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia.
The hackathon aims to enable students and start-ups/MSMEs of both the nations in fostering innovative solutions for the development of a circular economy across the food system value chain with the aim of increasing the long-term health and resilience of our planet, through innovative technology solutions.
I-ACE also aims to accelerate the development of young and promising students and startups/MSMEs working towards the creation of a sustainable future.
More than 1000 applications received from both countries went through a rigorous screening process, after which Top 80 applications are selected for an unique bi-lateral Hackathon, wherein students and startups of both the nations will work together on Innovative ways of boosting Circular Economy in priority themes:
Innovation in packaging reducing packaging waste
Innovation in food supply chains avoiding waste
Creating opportunities for plastics waste reduction
Recycling critical energy metals and e-waste.
Each team can consist of minimum 2 members to maximum 5 members compulsorily from the same entity/institute as mentioned in the application form. The following entities are eligible to apply for India Australia Circular Economy Hackathon (I-ACE):
Students currently pursuing Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate course from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) of India.
Entity recognized as Startup under Startup India scheme by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
Entities recognized as Micro Small and Medium Enterprises having Udyam Registration number by Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises.
