IBM Opens Request for Proposals Focused on AI for Sustainable Consumption and Production

IBM has launched a new request for proposals (RFP) for nonprofit and government organizations to form the next cohort of IBM Sustainability Accelerator projects. The new cohort topic will focus on AI solutions for more sustainable consumption and production, advancing progress against United Nations SDGs 9 or 12.

IBM is seeking projects that will develop solutions to accelerate sustainable economic development, boost efficiency in the supply chain, and expand AI deployment and capacity across various stages of production and consumption. Specific topics may include, but are not limited to, efficient use of natural resources; mitigating food loss and waste; reuse and recycling; resilient logistics and transportation systems; and increasing scientific and tech capacity around the world, fostering sustainable supply chain innovation.

The IBM Sustainability Accelerator is a pro-bono social innovation program that applies IBM technologies, such as hybrid cloud and AI, and an ecosystem of research, technology, and development experts to enhance and scale nonprofit and government organization initiatives. To date, 20 organizations have been part of the IBM Sustainability Accelerator supporting vulnerable populations around the world. IBM has supported approximately 65,300 direct beneficiaries through our sustainable agriculture cohort, with approximately 1.1 million more projected to benefit from our clean energy cohort.

Beyond IBM, this RFP will also have the pleasure to include two strategic allies: the EY organization and ServiceNow. Both companies are aligned with IBM Sustainability Accelerator’s mission of innovating and scaling solutions for underserved communities.

EY teams will provide general capacity building workshops and coaching to the cohort, helping scale the innovative projects. Joining this year, ServiceNow will provide participating organizations with the opportunity to be considered for ServiceNow Platform solutions such as IT Service Management (ITSM) and Customer Service Management (CSM) and implementation grants in addition to advisory support for business digital transformation efforts.

Proposals are accepted from anywhere worldwide, and nonprofit and government initiatives can apply to the RFP beginning February 11, 2025, until the end of the submission window on April 30, 2025. Evaluation and selection criteria will consider applicants' level of support to communities; the feasibility and sustainability of proposed technology solutions; and applicants' transparency on measurement and reporting, among other considerations.

Justina Nixon-Saintil, IBM Vice President and Chief Impact Officer, said: "Looking ahead to our next IBM Sustainability Accelerator cohort, our global production systems and consumption patterns are undergoing an AI-powered transformation. By encouraging innovation, and building new scientific and tech capacity, we will support solutions that unlock needed efficiency and resiliency, resulting in more prosperous societies where people can thrive.”

Lyndsay Harris-Kyei, ServiceNow Head of Social Impact, said: "Collective action is a key driver for impact and innovation at ServiceNow. Partnering with IBM and EY demonstrates the power of collaboration to create a better world."

Apply for the IBM Sustainability Accelerator here.

Source: IBM

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