LebNet Explores the Future of Tech for Good with MIT Solve

LebNet hosted an engaging conversation on October 14 featuring Hala Hanna, Executive Director of MIT Solve, in an interview moderated by Jibran Jashshan, VP at NVIDIA. The session explored how technology-driven solutions can address some of the world’s most pressing challenges and how Lebanese and regional innovators can gain greater access to global opportunities, funding, and support.

Hala shared insights from MIT Solve’s decade of work supporting innovators across health, education, climate, and economic prosperity. Through examples of impactful solutions and its virtual accelerator model, she highlighted how funding, mentorship, and access to networks can help promising innovations grow and reach more people. The discussion also explored the distinction between charity and philanthropy, emphasizing the importance of sustainable, scalable solutions that address systemic challenges rather than immediate needs alone.

A key focus was how the LebNet community can get involved with MIT Solve and help advance innovation for good. The conversation highlighted opportunities for Lebanese professionals and diaspora members to contribute their expertise, connections, and resources to support promising innovators, strengthen local ecosystems, and help bring grassroots solutions to a wider stage. The Q&A sparked thoughtful questions about supporting social impact startups in Lebanon, accessing MIT Solve’s resources, and advice for early-career professionals interested in creating meaningful impact.

The session received great engagement and positive feedback from attendees, reflecting strong interest in the role of technology, collaboration, and the diaspora in advancing social innovation. Thank you to Hala Hanna, Jibran Jashshan, and everyone who joined and contributed to the discussion. 

Here are ways to give back to Lebanon through Solve: 

• Encourage an innovator to apply for Solve's 2027 Global Challenges: kit here https://tinyurl.com/solvelebnet

• Support a Solver with your expertise: sign up here https://solve.mit.edu/partner/mentorship

• Contribute to the Lebanon Innovation Prize: Your contribution will join pooled funding to support a vetted solution from the MIT Solve network working in Lebanon. Solve will manage the process, and LebNet will select the recipient. To contribute or learn more, please email [email protected].

Rewatch the event on LebNet Library 

Thank you again for being part of the LebNet community and for your interest in advancing technology and innovation for good. We look forward to building on this momentum and exploring more ways for the LebNet community to support innovators creating lasting, positive change in Lebanon and beyond.