Seattle has a rich history of solving hard problems. Local startups have figured out how to put planes in the sky, computers on every desk, and books (and groceries) in mailboxes around the world – while creating multi-billion dollar businesses in the process. 

Seattle’s innovative spirit is also at work to solve some of humanity’s greatest challenges, as local non-profits and social enterprises are working to end poverty by 2030, eliminate malaria, and provide clean water to billions.

And just as Seattle’s startup scene is speckled with failure (more startups go out of business than issue IPO), a number of our global development efforts will fall short, too. But just like startups and successful businesses embracing risk-taking and failing forward, so too has Seattle’s global development community.

To celebrate Seattle risk-takers who have built organizations to solve real challenges both at home and abroad, Global Washington has teamed up with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center to host a public event: Fast Pitch – Taking Risks to Change the World. On June 9, local social change innovators will be taking the stage to present their fascinating work in 2-minute “fast pitches” and will share their programs, inventions, and out-of-the-box ideas designed to improve lives around the world.

And we know the world needs these ideas.

In 2016, people worldwide have already been impacted by vicious weather, earthquakes, and political instability. Global leaders have convened to put forth the Sustainable Development Goals – a list of 17 bold goals to end poverty, combat climate change, and fight injustices and inequalities. The goals are at risk of not being achieved unless the status quo is changed and new solutions are developed. The Seattle organizations presenting on June 9 are doing just that, and their products, geographic focus, and business models couldn’t be more different:

Can menstrual pads capture data to improve the health of young girls?

Can your vacation be used to help social innovators overcome their most pressing challenges?

Can a licensing model improve health conditions in rural communities?

Can alternative financing models that pay proceeds forward work?

Can regional networks be improved to improve grassroots efforts?

Can our personal giving efforts be more effective? 

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center and Global Washington are collaborating on this free event on Thursday, June 9 at 5:30 P.M. to present examples of how a little risk-taking can go a long way. You might just leave inspired to take some chances yourself.

Learn more about the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center and its programs and events. Click here for more information about Fast Pitch: Taking Risks to Change the World on June 9.