On October 18th, Microsoft launched their tenth annual Imagine Cup competition. The Imagine Cup is a competition for youth wanting to solve pressing global issue with the help of technology. As you may remember, Daniel attended both the US and international finals for the Imagine Cup 2011. The competition gives students the opportunity to learn about technology, make an impact on the world, and meet new friends. Students are also given the chance to win many prizes including a trip to Sydney, Australia for the finals.

This year the Imagine Cup has four categories for entry ranging from software design to game design. In the software challenge, participants use Microsoft software to build solutions to global issues such as poverty or hunger. In game design, which is for both Xbox/Windows and phone, participants create games a scalable, socially minded game. In the IT section, students are given the opportunist to help redesign IT operations to be more effective and secure. Overall, the Imagine Cup has challenges for any teen interested in technology.

Along with the Imagine Cup, Microsoft launched Imagine Cup grants. Imagine Cup grants that Microsoft will provide to finalist teams to help jumpstart their social venture. Microsoft will provide grant winners with cash, software, and connections to help spur their social projects. To be eligible you must participate and be a finalist in the Imagine Cup. If your team is chosen as a grant recipient then you must incorporate as a nonprofit or business. This is a great opportunity for teens who wish to take their social project to the next level.

Disclosure: Microsoft and Teens in Tech Labs are partners, and Microsoft supports the Teens in Tech Conference and Incubator.