The CoLab accelerates innovation for Opportunity's clients by leveraging our worldwide staff and the groundbreaking advancements in AI to provide pioneering solutions based in human-centered design. Through rapid market testing cycles, products from the CoLab are paving the way for scalable, breakthrough technologies that will change the landscape of poverty.
Opportunity staff generated over 200 ideas during a global Idea Day, utilizing client personas and the latest AI advancements. The top 20 teams received coaching, resources from MIT and mentors from Microsoft, Amazon, Disney, and Twitter to develop their ideas into early-stage prototypes. At our Innovation Showcase in June, teams pitched their concepts and the Top 6 were selected to advance to the Proof of Concept phase, where they will refine their ideas with additional client feedback. In October, the Top 3 teams will be selected at our Innovation Summit in the Bay Area and then move to the Pilot phase for testing and scaling their AI solutions.
2024 Innovation Timeline
See the Prototypes
School Fee Loan Advisor
Farm Scenario Planning
Financial Planning and Advice
Learner Management
Farmer Loan Application Support
Kayayei Resources
Wellness Partner
School Development Assistant
FSA Support App
Skills Training for Kayayei
School Fee Loan Advisor
Exam Training for Business Correspondents
Farm Record Keeper
Voice Training for Kayayei
Classroom Lesson Planner
Weather & Regenerative Agriculture Assistance
Sponsors
Meet the Team
The CoLab accelerates innovation for Opportunity's clients by leveraging our worldwide staff and the groundbreaking advancements in AI to provide pioneering solutions based in human-centered design. Through rapid market testing cycles, products from the CoLab are paving the way for scalable, breakthrough technologies that will change the landscape of poverty.
Meet the Team
The CoLab accelerates innovation for Opportunity's clients by leveraging our worldwide staff and the groundbreaking advancements in AI to provide pioneering solutions based in human-centered design. Through rapid market testing cycles, products from the CoLab are paving the way for scalable, breakthrough technologies that will change the landscape of poverty.
William Derban
Dr. William Derban serves as the Head of Programs and Partnerships for Opportunity International's Digital Innovation Group, defining…
Read MorePaul Essene
Paul Essene leads the Digital Innovation product team, driving initiatives using human centered design to conceptualize, develop,…
Read MoreGreg Nelson
Greg Nelson serves as Opportunity’s Chief Technology Officer and leads the organization’s Digital Innovation Group (DIG),…
Read MoreShari Van Cleave
Shari Van Cleave is a seasoned digital innovation executive with a 20-year career helping global financial institutions innovate…
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