Celebrating Moonshot Thinking: Solve for X Honors Innovators Under 35

Jason Pontin’s essay, “Why We Can’t Solve Big Problems” had at its heart a fundamental belief that the solution to most, if not all, of our shared human problems will come from emerging technologies. We are inspired by today’s young technologists who are working to eradicate disease; provide food, water, renewable energy sources, and affordable education to billions; and even ease traffic jams for growing urban populations.

Taking on these difficult challenges requires a bold approach, “moonshot” thinking. Each year, with our Innovators Under 35 list, MIT Technology Review endeavors to highlight today’s most creative and bold young technologists, celebrating the rising stars who have dedicated their careers to purpose-driven innovation.

We have found kindred spirits in the Solve for X team, who today launched a new and inspiring site - www.solveforx.com.  Founded by a team at Google, Solve for X aspires to create global community around moonshot thinking.

This video is a great overview of the project:

The new Solve for X site features a number of our recent TR35 honorees, now known as Innovators Under 35, celebrating the moonshot thinking demonstrated by these extraordinary individuals.We are thrilled to see their work recognized in this important forum.

We know you will be inspired by the extraordinary talks featured on the Solve for X site. We are.

The search for bold new approaches is ongoing. Nominations are being accepted now for the 2013 class of Innovators Under 35. Please let us know who you believe should be on this year’s list. Our annual list has earned a global reputation for identifying inspiring young innovators in the private sector, government agencies, and academic labs.

Some moonshots will change our lives. Others won’t. The point is to celebrate those who are taking their shot, tackling our most daunting challenges with a vision for a better world.