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Frequently asked questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often about WSA Austria, the Austrian selection of the World Summit Awards: who can apply, how the selection works and what the WSA is.

Applying

Who can apply?

Companies, individuals, associations and organisations based in Austria.

How much does it cost to apply?

Nothing. Applying and being nominated are free of charge.

In which language do I apply?

The application is in English. Your solution itself can be in German or any other language.

When is the deadline?

Submissions for 2026 are closed. The 2027 call opens next year. Join the waitlist and we’ll email you as soon as it starts.

Does my solution have to be finished?

Yes. It has to be launched and running. Prototypes, beta versions and ideas do not count. It also has to have been launched or fundamentally updated within the past three years.

Does a website count?

A website or social media presence on its own is not enough. We are looking for digital solutions such as apps, platforms, software, AI applications, IoT or wearables.

Categories

Which categories are there?

There are eight categories, the same as at the global World Summit Award. The eight categories in detail.

Can I apply in more than one category?

No, you apply in exactly one category. If you are unsure which one fits, write to us at hello@wsa-austria.org.

Selection and jury

How does the selection work?

Projects apply through the Austrian call or are nominated.

  1. Pre-selection and Austrian winners: The National Experts review all submissions and choose the WSA Austria winners, one per category, so up to eight. These winners advance to the global contest.
  2. Online jury: In November and December, an online jury of around 100 international experts evaluates all nominations.
  3. Shortlist and global winners: 15 to 20 solutions per category make the shortlist. In January, the Grand Jury selects 40 global winners from it, five per category.

Is there prize money?

No. The World Summit Award does not award money. You gain visibility with an international audience, access to the WSA network and the official nominee seal. Global winners also receive mentoring and matchmaking.

WSA Global

What is the World Summit Award?

Since 2003, the WSA has honoured digital solutions that contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It was founded in the framework of the UN World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), 182 countries take part, and it is under the patronage of UNESCO.

Is the WSA part of the United Nations?

No. The WSA was founded in the framework of the UN, but it works independently and has no official affiliation with the UN.

How successful is Austria?

Austria has 32 global winners so far, which makes it the most successful country at the WSA worldwide. All Austrian Global Champions.