GIG's mission is to empower global communities through digital innovation for sustainable development. We nurture a network of 200+ members across 50+ countries, fostering makerspaces and innovation hubs worldwide. Our vision is a world of equitable global cooperation, driven by local inclusive innovation, open knowledge sharing, and South-South partnerships. GIG strives to harness technology's potential to address complex challenges, creating lasting impact
for communities globally.
How you can support
We invite you to join us in driving innovation for social impact worldwide as a supporting member. Here are the suggested annual contributions:
- Small Organisations: €300
For organisations with fewer than 50 employees or under €1 million budget
- Large Organisations: €3,000+
For organisations with 50+ employees or €1 million+ budget
Contribute now or contact us to learn how your support can help social innovators create lasting change in communities worldwide.
How we work
GIG connects makerspaces, hackerspaces, and innovation hubs worldwide, fostering global collaboration. Our diverse network engages in research and community-driven projects, focusing on climate resilience and inclusive development. By amplifying voices from the Global South, we empower communities to create locally-rooted, sustainable solutions. Our networked approach drives impactful knowledge sharing and innovation, accelerating the transition towards a future built on solidarity and sustainability.
Hear from our members
GIG made me recognise the powerful potential for a global network of exceptionally bright people, each equipped with their individual skillsets, and driven by their belief that they can change the world for good.
Jay Fajardo, Ideaspace Ventures
GIG has guided and supported me all the way giving me the space I needed to fail try again get motivated and inspired have the courage to participate in some projects such as CoAct and Critical Making.
Nidhi Mittal, Digitally speaking
GIG has been a crucial space to spark true inclusive collaboration in spaces for technologists makers and innovators where the most likely participants are from the Global North creating opportunities for sharing and work.
Emilio Velis, Appropedia
Our focus areas
Educational Technology
Supporting crucial grassroots initiatives addressing limited education infrastructure, particularly in the Global South, we work together with members on education-focused open hardware projects, like robotics, STEM education, and tinkering in makerspaces.
Recognising the role of grassroots initiatives in combating climate change in the Global South, GIG collaborates with members on innovative climate resilience solutions. These include eco-focused makerspaces, nature-based prototypes, and more.
Our journey ahead
In 2025, GIG is set to amplify its global impact through our key initiatives. By fostering innovation at local and global levels, we're creating a more connected, resilient, and inclusive world.
GIG Week 2025
Bringing together social innovators from 20+ countries, our annual gathering, held alongside re:publica, accelerates global knowledge exchange by showcasing diverse, 'alternative' sustainability solutions. It also strengthens cross-cultural innovation networks, connecting our community with the wider innovation ecosystem.
GIG Regional Gatherings
These in-person gatherings aim to decentralise innovation across continents, deepen regional collaboration, and amplify underrepresented voices in innovation. By bringing our global network to local settings, we foster more inclusive and context-specific solutions.
Climate Resilience Labs
Harnessing the power of networks to tackle urgent environmental challenges, these labs will facilitate global exchanges among open innovator. By focusing on diverse, often underrepresented perspectives, we'll develop climate resilience solutions that have both local impact and global relevance.
Join us in shaping the future of social innovation.
We invite potential collaborators to partner with us to empower social innovators and makers worldwide. Together, we can foster innovation, tackle global challenges, and build a more resilient future.
Our team would love to provide insights into our upcoming initiatives and explore how your support can create lasting impact.
Benefits for supporting members:
- Meet The Members: Partake in our “Meet the Members” exchange and networking talks, and tap into our members' expertise.
- Community Talks: Participate in online thematic discussions, typically initiated when members express interest in a common topic.
- Newsletter: Get featured in the GIG newsletter upon joining GIG as a supporting member.
- Be Connected: Share partnership opportunities and expertise requests with the GIG community via our communication channels, and engage in innovative collaborations.
& more!
Join us in shaping the future of social innovation.
We invite potential collaborators to partner with us to empower innovators driving equitable education futures in the Global South.
Our team would love to explore how we can create lasting impact with you.
BENEFITS FOR SUPPORTERS:
- Meet The Members: Partake in our “Meet the Members” sessions, and tap into our members' expertise.
- Community Talks: Participate in online thematic discussions, typically initiated when members express interest in a common topic.
- Be Connected: Share partnership opportunities and expertise requests with the GIG community, and engage in innovative collaborations.
& more!
