Since its inception in 2001, The Tech Awards, presented by Applied Materials Inc. — a signature program of The Tech Museum of Innovation — has named 287 laureates who are using technology to benefit humanity. What has that designation and affiliation meant to them? In many cases, it’s been exactly the boost early-stage social entrepreneurs have needed to scale their ventures.
Here are a few of their stories.
Jacob Korenblum, President and CEO, Souktel, 2010 laureate
Created mobile phone job ads connecting companies with the unemployed
“The Tech Awards were extremely valuable for us: Being named as a laureate was great exposure, and in many ways it validated our business model. People take Silicon Valley seriously, and the recognition we gained through The Tech Awards then helped us raise our first venture funding. We’ve also appreciated the ability to network with laureates since then, and it’s great company to keep.”
Charles Best, CEO, DonorsChoose, 2004 laureate
Developed an online marketplace where teachers describe and individuals can fund classroom needs
“Being honored as a Tech laurette in 2004 help to put DonorChoose.org on the map as a tech-forward nonprofit organization. The award inspired us, and it also opened doors to funders and advisers who support us to this very day. Since 2004, DonorsChoose.org has been able to deliver $325 million to classrooms across the United States.”
Jim Fruchterman, CEO, Benetech, 2003 & 2001 laureate
Bookshare is a digital library for people with visual disabilities
“The Tech Awards is the premiere social good event in Silicon Valley. The Tech Museum is a high-profile institution; and when it gives out an award it’s like being recognized by all of Silicon Valley. This means winning a Tech Award is a big boost whether you’re local or somewhere else in the world. Winning the Tech Awards was also a big validation of our path of using tech for social good rather for maximum profit. The Tech Awards took a chance on us early on. Benetech’s Bookshare completely revolutionized the way we get accessible books to children with print disabilities like blindness.”
Wendy Brawer, Founder and Director, Green Map System , 2001 laureate
Created maps to show green living, natural and cultural resources
“Being a 2001 laureate has meant a great deal to Green Map System. It buoyed our journey toward becoming a truly global network now impacting 65 countries where inclusively made Green Maps offer a fresh perspective on local progress toward sustainability and a greater understanding of the catalytic potential of technology. We value the many opportunities stemming from The Tech Awards, including ongoing Global Giving support, participation in the Global Social Benefits Incubator and even ringing the opening bell at the NASDAQ!”
Dr. Robert S. Schemenauer, Executive Director, FogQuest , 2006 laureate
Developed process to capture fog for water resources
“FogQuest is a small charity that uses a simple fog-collection technology, based on good science, to provide clean water where conventional sources are not available. The Tech Awards ceremony in 2006 was an important moment that reinforced the credibility of what we do and brought our efforts to a large and influential audience. We are proud to have been an environmental laureate and extend our congratulations to all new recipients of the award.”
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