Social Citizens

Igniting the Next Generation of Changemakers

Google's Project 10^100: Wants your ideas to change the world

Last week Google celebrated its 10th anniversary and marked the occasion with its latest venture into the philanthropic world. Project 10^100 (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 to address energy and health initiatives -- and exploring new approaches to detect the threat of pandemic 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, and TripAdvisor 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 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.
 
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