As the prime contractor of USAID’s Wildlife Crime Tech Challenge, Integra is excited to announce that the Concept Notes are in and currently undergoing technical review! During the Wildlife Crime Tech Challenge’s ten-week application window, individuals and organizations countries around the world submitted 300 Concept Notes covering a variety of solutions that address both terrestrial and marine wildlife. Some highlights from the pool of Concept Notes received include:

• 52 countries represented
• 67% applied from outside the United Statess
• 50% were individuals; 50% represented organizations
• 53% had no prior experience combating wildlife trafficking
• 86% had not previously received USAID funding

The application window closed June 30, 2015, and a technical review of applications has begun. Next, nine judges representing the fields of conservation, law enforcement, business, technology, journalism, and government will select the Finalists that will apply for a Prize Package comprising $10,000, recognition, and technical and networking support. Winners of the Prize Package will have an opportunity to apply for a Grand Prize of up to $500,000. Stay tuned for the Finalists announcement in early September!

Beginning in 2016, the Challenge will support the acceleration and scale-up of winning solutions by offering targeted support and technical assistance. The Challenge is looking for individuals or groups who will work with Winners to accelerate and scale the solutions to new markets and users. To learn more about the Challenge and how you can get involved, please visit the project website at www.wildlifecrimetech.org.