We are GIG
Written by Ricardo Ruiz
The LibreWater project has recently achieved significant results, particularly in deploying small-scale solar desalination prototypes in Basra, Iraq. Rooted in open-source methodologies and collaborative global innovation, the project examined two distinct approaches for solar-powered water desalination: the solar concentrator dish and the Fresnel lens design. The LibreWater and ScienceCamp team developed substantial insights regarding technical […]
Written by Ricardo Ruiz
The Make-a-thek Community Call on May 14, 2025, brought together experts and practitioners to discuss inclusive fashion and assistive technology. The session featured presentations from Sema Gedik, founder of Auf Augenhoehe, and Saad Chinoy, a maker and advocate for accessible design. Their work highlights the intersection of sustainability, inclusion, and innovation. Sema shared her journey, […]
Written by Ricardo Ruiz
Education and Makerlabs represent a dynamic intersection of innovation, collaboration, and skill-building. Makerlabs, as spaces dedicated to hands-on learning and creativity, have become increasingly integrated into educational frameworks. They provide opportunities for learners to engage in project-based activities, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Integrating Makerlabs into education is challenging, but the potential benefits are […]
Written by Ricardo Ruiz
Water scarcity is persistent in many regions, particularly arid and semi-arid areas. Due to environmental and geopolitical factors, Iraq faces significant challenges in securing clean drinking water. LibreWater, an open-source initiative, seeks to address this issue through decentralized, small-scale solar desalination. The project is part of a broader effort from the Global Innovation Gathering to […]
Written by Ricardo Ruiz
The “Open Catalogue of Business Models,” developed by the MAKE project, serves as a resource to enhance the financial sustainability of makerspaces and foster a decentralized production ecosystem. This catalogue is structured to provide inspiration and guidance, allowing makerspaces to adapt and experiment with various business model elements to suit their unique environments. The catalogue […]
Written by Ricardo Ruiz
The SCoPE project, led by L’Africaine d’architecture and implemented at Woelab in Lomé, Togo, aims to tackle plastic waste issues by creating a circular economy model. Supported by the Stiftung Nord-Süd-Brücken and the Global Innovation Gathering, this initiative represents a collaborative effort to innovate waste management practices. Through the project, plastic waste is collected, sorted, […]
Written by Ricardo Ruiz
The Global Innovation Gathering (GIG) is pleased to announce the fourth DOTS Festival edition, scheduled for December 5th and December 10th, 2024. This event will continue to build on the success of previous editions, fostering collaboration and innovation among members from diverse backgrounds, which makes DOTS our Internal Impact Summit! Event Schedule December 5th, 2024: […]
Written by Ricardo Ruiz
GIG supported its member Felipe Fonseca to join the OSPOS for Good 2024 in New York. This is a report from the days in The Big Apple. I was recently in New York City, for two combined events about “open source”. Even typing these words right now makes me quite conscious of how this may […]
Written by Ricardo Ruiz
Digital technologies are increasingly used worldwide to mediate social dynamics, manage access to rights and ensure participation in economic life. However, the way such technologies are created has blind spots, sometimes literally. There is not enough discussion about the extent to which a digital infrastructure embeds discriminatory and racist assumptions when developed and deployed critically. […]
Written by Ricardo Ruiz
Racism is a pervasive and complex problem, affecting individuals and societies differently. How can we address this issue creatively and engagingly? How can we use games for empowerment, awareness, and education? These questions motivated a co-design lab in Brazil in a partnership between GIG and the University of Bristol and its collaborators. The co-design lab […]
