Meta is amplifying its commitment to harnessing artificial intelligence for social good with the launch of the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide substantial funding for AI-driven projects that address crucial global challenges, focusing particularly on Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey.
Introducing the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants Program
On August 5, 2024, Meta introduced the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants, a visionary program designed to support organizations that are leveraging AI to tackle urgent social issues. Building on the success of earlier grant initiatives, the Llama 3.1 program will offer up to $2 million USD in funding. This new round of grants is open to global organizations, with an emphasis on those in Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey.
The Llama 3.1 Impact Grants will award up to $500,000 USD to selected organizations. The funding is intended to bolster innovative AI applications in various sectors, including economic development, scientific research, and public service. Meta is seeking proposals that demonstrate the capacity to effect significant change in local communities through the innovative use of AI technology.
Kojo Boakye, Meta’s Vice President of Public Policy for Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey, highlighted the transformative power of AI: “We’re inspired by the diverse projects we’ve seen developers undertake around the world to positively impact their communities by building with Llama. We believe AI has more potential than any other modern technology to increase human productivity, creativity, and quality of life—and to accelerate economic growth while unlocking progress in medical and scientific research.”
Support and Engagement Opportunities
To assist organizations in the application process, Meta will host a series of regional events, including virtual conferences, in-person hackathons, workshops, and training sessions. These events will take place in a wide array of locations, such as Sub-Saharan Africa, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Korea, Latin America, North America, Pakistan, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, the UAE, and Vietnam.
These regional events are designed to offer technical guidance and mentorship, helping participants to develop impactful AI solutions tailored to their local needs. Additionally, organizations participating in these events will be eligible for specialized awards of up to $100,000 USD.
Application Details
The application period for the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants runs from August 5, 2024, to November 22, 2024. Meta encourages eligible organizations to submit their proposals promptly to take full advantage of this exceptional opportunity to drive social impact through AI.
This initiative follows the success of the inaugural Llama Impact Grants, which were announced in October 2023 and attracted over 800 applications from more than 90 countries. The 20 finalists from that program are expected to have their final proposals reviewed, with winners announced in September 2024, alongside those of the Llama Impact Innovation Awards.
Why It Matters
Meta’s Llama 3.1 Impact Grants offer a pivotal opportunity for organizations across Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey to gain critical funding and support for AI-driven initiatives. By empowering local innovators to address social challenges through AI, Meta is not only advancing technology but also fostering meaningful change in communities worldwide.
Organizations interested in the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants should seize this chance to harness AI for good and make a significant impact. Applications are open until November 22, 2024.
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