The Migration Challenge will select 20 tech ideas, of which 10 finalists will be chosen to showcase their solutions at the Global Forum on Migration and Development Summit.

Switzerland-based firm Seedstars Capital and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) have launched the fourth edition of the ‘Migration Challenge’.

The challenge is looking for tech start-ups, particularly those in North Africa, the Middle East, and Central and Eastern Europe - with a mission to provide tech solutions to migrants, including solutions that address climate-induced migration and support green transitions with migrant workforces.

According to the organisers, the focus of this challenge is on start-ups focused on improving migration processes for businesses and governments, with a specific emphasis on green climate tech solutions.

To be eligible, start-ups must focus on mobility and services for businesses or governments in the field of labour migration, have a tested minimum viable product with early traction, and offer solutions to businesses or governments.

The Migration Challenge will select 20 tech ideas, of which 10 finalists will be chosen to showcase their solutions at the Global Forum on Migration and Development Summit, which will take place in Geneva on 23-25 January, 2024.

The winner and two runners-up will be paired with a mentor from the Seedstars Mentorship Hub, who will provide direction and assistance in addressing core business difficulties, improving fundraising efforts, and scaling up their processes.

The winner of the challenge will receive a prize of CHF5,000 from IOE.

“Our collaboration with IOE in the past editions has always paved the way for groundbreaking innovations in the migration sector," said Elizabeth Jones, head of programmes at Seedstars.

Roberto Suarez-Santos, IOE secretary general, said: "Migration is a multifaceted international challenge and with Seedstars, we are steadfast in our commitment to leverage technology for transformative impact that will catalyse positive change for labour migrants, business communities and governments."

Startups looking to be a part of this challenge, have until 6 October to lodge applications on the Seedstars website.