Mission: TEL is an independent, not-for-profit organization that provides a global platform for sharing innovative, locally implementable solutions to problems of poverty. TEL believes that many adverse effects of poverty in the developing world can be addressed by leveraging innovative technologies from all corners of the world. These innovations can help deliver safe drinking water, improved irrigation, sustainable fuels, and other life-saving benefits through creative, cost-effective, point-of-use solutions. While innovative technology-based are emerging every day, the lack of reliable product and sourcing information leaves many communities, NGOs and entrepreneurs in developing regions disconnected from the supply chain. TEL's goal is to facilitate the deployment of these technologies to the people who need them the most, as well as to encourage further innovation. It accomplishes this via an interactive online platform that connects technology solution providers (e. g. , inventors worldwide) with solution seekers (e. g. , communities and NGOs in developing regions). TEL allows an exchange of information between stakeholders and reduces costs associated with delivering appropriate solutions. More than simply an exchange platform, TEL's mission is to give individuals living in poverty a wide variety of choice in selecting the best solutions to promote secure livelihoods. As an international network of inventors, engineers, non-profit workers, entrepreneurs, environmentalists, micro-financiers and community leaders, TEL always welcomes new members.

Target demographics: Developing Communities

Direct beneficiaries per year: TEL connects NGOs, end-users, innovators, and last-mile communities to implement sustainable technology

Geographic areas served: International

Programs: Our curated database of high-impact, low-cost solutions to problems of poverty bridges the gap between end-users and innovators.