Created by inDrive, a global mobility and urban services platform with operations in over 700 cities across 46 countries, the Award aims to spotlight technology startups succeeding against the odds, including challenges like limited resources and access to funding.

Ekaterina Smirnova, Head of The Underdog Tech Award, expressed: “The Underdog Tech Award champions the unsung heroes of the tech world, echoing inDrive's own journey. We're shifting the spotlight to founders beyond the usual tech capitals and Ivy League circles, promoting diversity and inclusion across global communities.”

The Award offers cash prizes of $30,000, $20,000, and $10,000 for the top three winners, alongside additional support like expert training and PR assistance. Winners will be announced on 1st April 2024 at the official website.

2024 Shortlist Highlights

• Victor Juarez, Guatemala: Founder of TuConsejeria, providing psychological support within the Hispanic community.
• Basima Abdulrahman, Iraq: CEO of KESK, pioneering green energy platforms in Iraq.
• Elmira Safarova, Chile: CEO of Rarus Health, enhancing diagnostics for rare genetic diseases.
• Omar Ahmed Abdelwahed and Ibrahim Karim Eid, Egypt: Founders of Valify Solutions, leading in digital identity technology.
• Carlos Andrés García Iguarán, Colombia: Co-founder of Numera, automating accounting processes for companies.
• Amos Muthoni Kimani, Kenya: CEO of TausiApp, offering on-demand beauty services.
• Mostafa Dawoud, Egypt: CEO of Dentolize, a comprehensive dental practice management solution.
• Roikhanatun Nafi'ah, Indonesia: CEO of Crustea, advancing aquaculture with eco-friendly technology.
• Chandramouli Samatham, India: Founder of Caare, making healthcare accessible in rural areas.
• Ashraf Bacheet, Egypt: CEO of O7 Therapy, expanding access to mental health services.
• Royford Mutegi, Kenya: Head of Vermi-Farm Initiative, providing agri-tech solutions to farmers.
• Sadman Sadek, Bangladesh: Founder of Digital Innovation for Impact, supporting farmers with agricultural insights.
• Akhlad Mohamed Alabhar, Egypt: CEO of Egrobots, optimising farming through data analytics.
• Julian Garcia, Argentina: Co-founder of Wiolit, reducing food waste in canteens.
• Biplab Karki, USA: CEO of Hyperce, offering innovative e-commerce solutions.
• Mohamed Tarek Mohamed Abdelzaher, Egypt: Co-founder of P-vita, recycling agricultural waste for the cosmetics and food industry.
• Felipe Castañeda, Chile: Founder of GLIBER, providing financial services to gig economy workers.
• Constantine Fedosev, USA: CEO of Visionary, offering energy storage solutions for power grids.
• Abdelrahman Rashwan, Egypt: Head of Product at Credify, enhancing digital lending with alternative data.
• Saúl Paniagua-Lapenta, Bolivia: CCO of VAKA, connecting farmers with investors for agricultural projects.

The selection panel comprises distinguished tech entrepreneurs, academics, and industry experts, including Fatma Nasujo, Sean Kim, Charles Eesley, Daniel Gándara, Damla Buyuktaskin, and Arsen Tomsky, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive evaluation of entrants.