GOOGLE TO PAY $10 MILLION FOR GOOD IDEAS

Got an idea that could change the world? No, that combination beer keg/massage chair you’ve been dreaming of doesn’t count. To celebrate its 10th anniversary, internet giant GOOGLE has created PROJECT 10^100 (pronounced “10 to the 100th”), a campaign that aims to solicit and fund new ideas that can radically benefit people’s lives. “These ideas can be big or small, technology-driven or brilliantly simple, but they need to have impact,” said a company spokesman. “We know there are countless brilliant ideas that need funding and support to come to fruition.” The company cited the “Hippo Water Roller”—a barrel attached to a handle that can hold up to 24 gallons of water and be easily rolled like a wheelbarrow by rural Africans to transport fresh water to their homes—as just such an example. The deadline for idea submissions is October 20th, and up to five will be chosen with funding granted from a dedicated $10 million pool. If only one idea is selected, however, the entire $10 million will go towards it. Google will choose 100 semifinalists by January 27 that the public will be able to vote online for between January 27 and February 2. A panel of judges will then review the top 20 ideas and announce up to five winners in mid-February. Applicants are encouraged to submit their ideas in any of 25 languages at www.project10tothe100.com. Entrants must briefly describe their idea and answer six questions, including, “If your idea were to become a reality, who would benefit the most and how?” And no, that ballpoint pen that makes Barack Obama undress when you tip it upside down doesn’t count…