Intel CEO Launches Inspire-Empower Challenge

In his opening keynote speech at Intel’s fall IDF conference, which began today, Intel CEO Craig Barrett delivered a rousing speech about improving the quality of life worldwide through the use of new technologies. He proceeded to introduce a series of guests whose pioneering work in the areas of investment, healthcare, human interface, and alternative energy have created technological solutions toward that end.

All of this led up to the announcement of the Intel Challenge – four awards of $100,000 each to be given toward the development of innovative technology ideas in the areas of education, healthcare, economic development, and environmentalism. The submitted projects will be judged by an independent panel, and the awards themselves will be given at the 2009 Spring IDF.

The Challenge is designed to inspire developers, individuals, and organizations to innovate and empower them to deliver new ways to apply technology to these issues. The INSPIRE•EMPOWER Challenge advances the commitment of the Intel World Ahead Program – to connect people to a world of opportunity.

Enjoy these pictures from Craig’s keynote. We’ll post more pictures and news as it happens.