Every year, a wave of transformative innovation finds its spark through Solve’s Global Challenges—connecting bold thinkers, doers, and creators from all walks of life. These aren’t just competitions; they are high-impact moments of global problem-solving, where technology meets purpose.
Whether you’re a lone innovator or part of a dream team, applying to a Solve Challenge can open doors to funding, recognition, and a powerful community. But how do you actually apply? What does the process involve? And how can you maximize your chances of success?
This blog post walks you through the entire application journey—from setting up your account to submitting your solution with confidence.
Convening the World’s Changemakers: What Is Solve?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s take a moment to understand why Solve matters.
Each year, Solve organizes two landmark events that bookend its Global Challenge cycle:
- Solve Challenge Finals (New York City – Fall)
Held during Climate Week and the UN General Assembly, this event is buzzing with energy, spotlighting real solutions to pressing global issues. - Solve at MIT (Cambridge – Spring)
Hosted on the iconic MIT campus, this capstone event is all about connection, celebration, and scaling impact.
During these events, Solve doesn’t just hand out prizes—it builds bridges. Innovators get direct access to funders, mentors, industry leaders, and fellow changemakers. It’s the kind of platform that can turn a humble idea into a world-changing force.
How to Apply to a Solve Global Challenge
Now, if you’re fired up to join this vibrant ecosystem of changemakers, here’s exactly what you need to do.
Step 1: Log In or Create Your Account
First things first, head over to solve.mit.edu/login and either log in or create an account. This will give you access to the entire application dashboard.
Step 2: Find and Start a Challenge
Next, browse the open challenges and click “Start Solution” on the one that resonates most with your mission. This will initiate your application process.
Remember, each challenge addresses a specific global issue—so choose the one where your solution can truly shine.
Step 3: Choose to Apply Solo or as a Team
Not working alone? That’s perfectly fine. When you start your application, you can choose to submit as:
- An Individual
- A Team
If you go with a team, navigate to the Teams section and click “Manage Team” (gear icon). You’ll be able to:
- Add members via email
- Assign roles like Team Leader or Team Member
💡 Tip: The Team Lead should ideally be your CEO or Executive Director—or someone in charge of your solution’s strategic direction.
Step 4: Build Your Solution Profile
Once you’ve started your application, you’ll be asked to complete a solution profile. This acts like your pitch deck—so take your time.
The profile will ask for:
- Basic info about your innovation
- Problem-solution fit
- Target audience
- Implementation strategy
Once done, click “Save as a New Solution Profile”—this allows you to reuse your answers for future applications.
Step 5: Complete the Application Sections
Now comes the core of your submission. Fill out all the required and optional questions. You’ll know you’re on track when a green tick appears next to each section.
Some notes here:
- You can skip ahead to preview future sections, even if earlier ones aren’t complete.
- Your progress is automatically saved (but a stable internet connection is always helpful).
- You can edit your responses anytime before the deadline.
Step 6: Review and Submit
Once you’ve completed the required fields—and ideally, the optional ones too—it’s time to submit.
✅ Pro tip: Submit early. You can still edit your application before the deadline if needed. But once the deadline passes, unsubmitted applications will not be considered.
Best Practices to Improve Your Chances
Start Early
Don’t wait until the last minute. Most applicants report spending several hours on the application. Give yourself the space to review, refine, and polish.
Answer Optional Questions
While not mandatory, applicants who complete optional sections tend to have stronger, more complete applications. It’s an opportunity to showcase depth and commitment.
Use the Help Text
Many questions come with built-in help guides—use them! They offer explanations, examples, and frameworks to help shape compelling answers.
In Summary: Your Solve Application Checklist
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| ✅ | Create account at solve.mit.edu/login |
| ✅ | Choose a challenge & click “Start Solution” |
| ✅ | Decide on individual vs. team submission |
| ✅ | Fill out solution profile |
| ✅ | Complete all required + optional questions |
| ✅ | Review and submit before the deadline |
| ✅ | Join the global community of solvers |
Final Thoughts: Solve Isn’t Just a Program—It’s a Movement
By joining Solve’s Global Challenges, you’re stepping into a vibrant, action-driven network. You’re aligning with some of the world’s leading innovators, institutions, and thinkers.
But more than anything, you’re taking your idea seriously—and giving it the platform it deserves.
So, what are you waiting for?
👉 Apply to a Solve Challenge today.
