The Global Challenge accelerates architectural initiatives that have radical potential to improve the lives of both rural and urban communities. It is a one year program that recognises the best community projects and helps to accelerate their development. Together with our partners, we select the most impactful initiatives, promote them amongst our global network and connect them to create meaningful collaborations.

The first Global Challenge was initiated by A--D in 2016. With 80+ projects from 37 countries submitted, the 2016 pilot ultimately supported the realisation of ModSkool, an award winning project that set a groundbreaking example of ‘Do-It-Together’ architecture.

The Global Challenge is a great opportunity if you are seeking support or resources to get your community's initiative off the ground. It is the one-and-only global program that supports the early phase of bottom up, community architectural initiatives. Main reasons to submit your community project:

• Our unique submission and judging criteria helps identify your project’s true needs to find the right collaborators and partners.
• Through A--D’s partner alliance and campaigns, your project will gain global exposure, increasing its visibility and credibility among your potential collaborators.
• If chosen to be a finalist, you can participate in our free accelerator program to boost your team’s capacity and connect with our partners willing to offer support.

There are two ways to participate in the Global Challenge 2021:

• As a project submittor: if you are a community representative, community activist, community architect or NGO, you can submit your community architectural initiative.
• As a project supporter, provide (pro bono) expertise or resources in building-planning, engineering, legal, managerial or other relevant professional services. You can register as an expert and contribute to any community project that needs your expertise.