About

The GovTech Innovation Challenge

A World Bank-backed programme connecting global technology companies with specific public sector challenges in emerging markets, at no cost to selected participants.

Our mission

The GovTech Innovation Challenge creates a platform for private companies to design and test innovative digital solutions for the public sector. By partnering with the World Bank's Institutions Global Department, SECO Switzerland, and Trust Valley, we accelerate government efficiency, transparency, and citizen services in countries that need it most.

Since 2019, the GovTech Global Community has grown to include 90+ members exchanging best practices and exploring synergies, connecting government agencies, private sector leaders, academic institutions, think tanks, international organisations, and civil society.

Our programme model is simple: identify a real, pressing challenge in a beneficiary country; design a structured selection process; bring the best solutions to Switzerland for capacity building; and support Proof of Concept development directly with the government partner.

1
Call for Proposals since 2025
130+
Proposals submitted
30+
Countries represented (proposals submitted)
6
Projects selected

The programme partners

World Bank

The World Bank's Institutions Global Department leads the programme's global mandate, challenge design and beneficiary government engagement.

worldbank.org →

SECO Switzerland

The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) supports the programme through the World Bank Trust Fund's Governance & Institutions Umbrella Program.

seco.admin.ch →

Trust Valley

A Swiss public-private partnership promoting digital trust and cybersecurity, Trust Valley provides a neutral platform to develop meaningful proof of concepts.

trustvalley.swiss →