Each year, the Bell Labs Prize recognizes game-changing innovations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Geared toward innovative proposals that look to solve broader societal and humanistic challenges, the competition continues Nokia Bell Labs’ rich tradition of finding solutions to some of the greatest challenges facing the information and telecommunications industry.
Imagine the future and we will help you invent it with cash prizes that can help propel your idea forward. In addition, all three winners are considered for opportunities to work alongside Nokia Bell Labs researchers to further explore their ideas.
Prize process
The competition is open to anyone in the participating countries who meets the eligibility requirements. From the hundreds of applications we receive, five and seven finalists are selected to compete for three prizes in mid-November in front of a panel of renowned experts and industry leaders. The prizes awarded: $100,000 (grand prize), $50,000 (second place) and $25,000 (third place), will be paid directly to the prize winners. During the final stage, we will assign a Nokia Bell Labs Research Partner (BLRP) to help you strengthen your proposal to maximize your chances of winning the prize. Your proposal will be judged based on a credible proof-of-concept or set of results that validate the full potential of the innovation.
Key dates
March 10, 2021 - Call for proposals
May 14, 2021 - Proposal deadline
June 21, 2021 - Selection announced
June 30, 2021 - Virtual innovation
November 17, 2021 - Judging & winners announced
Eligibility
This prize is open to all eligible applicants who register and submit proposals in the general areas of information and communications technologies. Teams of up to four members are allowed to participate, provided each member of the team meets the eligibility requirements.
Participants must:
Own their ideas
Be 21 years of age or older
Possess a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree
Not be employed by Nokia or be a family member of Nokia employee
Reside in one of the following countries:
United States, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada (except Quebec), China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Turkey, United Kingdom