Last week Google celebrated its 10th anniversary and marked the occasion with its latest venture into the philanthropic world. Project 10^100 [1] (pronounced 10 to the 100th) began with a simple notion - may those who help the most win. Google began soliciting ideas for projects that have the potential to change the world and help as many people as possible.
We've seen a lot of interesting activity from Google lately. They're using their blog [2]to address energy and health initiatives -- and exploring new approaches to detect the threat of pandemic [3]before it can turn into a crisis.
I often consider myself privileged to work at a foundation that strives to find new and creative solutions to some of our most pressing social problems. But we are seeing more and more companies and organizations turning to their consumers when it comes to setting their philanthropic agendas.
American Express recently announced the second year of its Member's Project [4], and TripAdvisor [5] is leaving it up to their visitors to determine which nonprofits should receive a share of one million dollars. We launched a similar approach last year at the Case Foundation, with our Make it Your Own Award [6] program where we asked individuals to join together with others and address challenges and opportunities in their own communities.
So as we enter this new era participatory philanthropy, all of this begs an important question – will the next great idea come from the board room or the living room? You decide.
Comments
Project 10^100 is a great contest.
I have submitted my idea. My idea deals with creating a more incentive-driven health system. Think about it: wouldn't you like to get paid for being healthy or be able to "trade" your health to other less healthy family members or friends. Sound interesting...then find out more at the URL website below (or see my short YouTube video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=cb71fk-79Uc&watch_response [8]).
Also, full details can be found at www.quidproquohealthmanagement.com [9]
The Google Project is an excellent idea b/c it puts the money toward an the organization with the best ability to exucute the idea. And gets rid of the layers of hoops, has a demcratic element to the process.
My idea: The World Social Brand Market
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVIBIOxI5Yw [10]
http://knol.google.com/k/james-pruett/social-brands/806cui3nlxoq/5# [11]
Every social need demands its own trademarked sign. This way social brand symbols provide funding sources for the causes they represent and attend to real needs. Logos represent a universal language. These logos may be licensed and distributed to consumer goods manufactures, distributors and designers around the world. Additionally, they may be distributed via internet ad platforms or at the point of purchase.
Our goal is to create an extensive and expandable directory - a readable scheme that may be instantly recognized.
[12]
Clicks and Logos - Article on how Google could use it's AdWord program