As the global focus increasingly shifts towards merging technology with sustainability, Mobile World Capital Barcelona, with the collaboration of GSMA Foundry and B Lab Spain, is thrilled to announce the inception of the MWCapital Awards: Technologies for a Sustainable Future. This international initiative aims to recognise innovative projects that utilise digital transformation to contribute significantly to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasising a triple impact: economic, social, and environmental.
The MWCapital Awards are a reflection of MWCapital’s commitment to fostering a responsible and progressive digital transition. The initiative positions technology as a key driver in addressing pressing global challenges such as inequality, climate change, and digital inclusion. Francesc Fajula, CEO of Mobile World Capital Barcelona, remarked, “We envision a future where digital innovation is deeply intertwined with sustainability. Through these awards, we seek to acknowledge groundbreaking technological initiatives that are making a substantial difference in creating a fairer and more sustainable world.”
Encouraging Global Collaboration
More than just a competition, the MWCapital Awards strive to cultivate global collaboration around sustainability. The initiative is supported by strategic partners B Lab Spain and GSMA Foundry, both of whom will play essential roles throughout the process. B Lab will provide advisory support and participate as jury members, while also offering workshops aimed at enhancing sustainability impacts for the 15 finalists. In addition, GSMA Foundry, the innovation centre within GSMA, will leverage its vast global networks to enhance the exposure of the winning projects.
Richard Cockle, Head of GSMA Foundry and Connected Industries at GSMA, stated, “We are excited to deepen our partnership with Mobile World Capital in this vital area. Sustainability and the pursuit of the SDGs are critical for GSMA and its members. The mobile industry has made significant progress towards achieving the 17 goals, but much work lies ahead as we approach the 2030 deadline. Initiatives like the MWCapital Awards will be pivotal in amplifying the industry’s positive contributions.”
Honouring Innovation Across Various Sectors
The MWCapital Awards will celebrate innovative contributions across multiple sectors, recognising achievements in five distinct categories: Corporations, Small Enterprises and Startups, Non-profit or Social Enterprises (SBIC), Academic Institutions and Research Centres, and Government Entities. Additionally, a special recognition, the Barcelona Horizon Award, will be granted to the project with the greatest potential for enhancing sustainability within Barcelona’s digital landscape. The winning project will receive support for scaling its impact within the city.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for June 2025 in Barcelona, but the influence of this initiative will reach far beyond the event. Winners will gain international recognition, showcasing their achievements at MWC Barcelona 2026 and engaging in discussions that will shape the future of digital sustainability. The Barcelona Horizon Award will also include a €50,000 grant to help realise the winning project’s objectives and stimulate positive change in the city.
Rigorous Selection Process and Call for Global Submissions
The journey to the final stage will involve a stringent two-phase evaluation process conducted by an external international jury comprising prominent figures in sustainability and innovation. A total of fifteen finalists will be selected and will participate in specialised workshops designed to enhance their overall impact before the winners in each category are announced.
The submission period is currently open worldwide, with applications being accepted until March 18, 2025. Eligible projects must align with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, be operational for at least 12 months, and demonstrate measurable advancements in promoting sustainability through technology.
With the launch of the Mobile World Capital Awards, Barcelona strengthens its position as a global leader in both digital innovation and sustainable development. As MWCapital continues its mission to spearhead a responsible digital transition, these awards are set to inspire transformative projects that will not only revolutionise industries but also contribute to a more inclusive and resilient future for all.
