Technology is a key catalyst for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations. An urgent mission to achieve the well-being of our planet. The SDGs are composed of 17 major objectives, ranging from ending poverty to climate action with a global vision. Technology enables the implementation of concrete, scalable, and deeply innovative solutions.
In this context, the MWCapital Awards are a space for recognition and a driving force for the creation of an international community of technological projects for sustainability. Its first edition has proven this, receiving more than 150 candidacies from around the world, all committed to improving the planet through innovation. These candidacies belong to five categories of different organisations to highlight the diversity of entities working towards a responsible digital transition: Companies, Startups & SMEs, the Third Sector, Academia, and Public Institutions.
After the success of the first edition, Mobile World Capital Barcelona has opened the call for the MWCapital Awards 2026. With this second edition, the Foundation will expand the community of cutting-edge international projects and seek to consolidate Barcelona’s position as the capital of this responsible digital transformation.
The winning projects of 2025 are clear examples of how the application of technologies such as AI, IoT, or data computing, among others, contribute to addressing major global challenges, such as health, social inclusion, or environmental protection.
Innovation breaks down barriers in the health sector and reduces inequalities
Through technology, it is possible to reduce social and health gaps, making well-being more accessible to everyone. Samsung Electronics Iberia’s Technology with Purpose initiatives (SDG 10) demonstrate this commitment through more than 30 accessibility projects based on artificial intelligence. From TALLK, which facilitates communication for ALS patients and gives them back their voice; to UNFEAR, which filters noises to create more comfortable environments for people with autism; or IMPULSE, which transforms words into rhythmic vibrations through a smartwatch, acting as a personalised silent assistant.
From Colombia, the start-up Salva Health has created Julieta, an AI-powered portable device that revolutionises the early detection of diseases such as breast cancer. Julieta makes prevention of this illness accessible in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure, contributing significantly to Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG 3) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10) by bringing medical care where it is most needed.
Technology also provides solutions for social welfare programmes such as Nut4Health, by SIC4Change (Mauritania), which tackles child malnutrition and improves maternal and child health in often underserved communities through advanced technologies such as blockchain.
This approach highlights how technology can not only ensure health and wellbeing (SDG 3) but also enhance the effectiveness of development initiatives, creating more scalable and sustainable models.
Technology for the sustainability of cities
The “Data-Based City for Citizens” initiative by the City Council of Tampere (Finland) uses AI and digital twins to optimise urban life for its citizens through the Tampere Pulse platform. It promotes more efficient resource management, better scheduling, and greater citizen participation, driving economic dynamism and aligning with SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities.
Technological solutions for a more environmentally friendly planet
The challenge of climate change and the creation of more liveable and resilient cities find in technology a key ally. In Australia, the University of Western Sydney has developed SIMPaCT, an intelligent irrigation system based on IoT, AI, and digital twins. This solution optimises water consumption—achieving reductions of up to 70% compared to conventional systems—and improves urban cooling, effectively combating heat islands in metropolitan areas. In doing so, it directly contributes to Climate Action (SDG 13), making cities greener and more efficient.
Moreover, the Barcelona Horizon Award recognised umgrauemeio for its Embrace the Forest (Brazil) project, featuring its Pantera programme. This technology uses AI, real-time data, and drones to prevent, detect, and analyse forest fires. Pantera is a clear example of how technology can be a powerful tool for climate action (SDG 13), protecting vital ecosystems and minimising their catastrophic impact.
The strength of the community for the society and the planet
The 2025 edition of the MWCapital Awards cultivated the seed of an international community of technological projects linked to the fulfilment of the SDGs. The awards not only recognise excellence but also seek the exchange of knowledge, collaboration, and mutual inspiration. With our sights already set on the 2026 edition, we open the doors to the next technological projects that will watch over the future of the planet.
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