• Digital Infrastructure

Technology is fueling urban development across emerging markets in significant ways. But there's no formula to follow. Professor John Macomber takes us inside the unique challenges and opportunities facing cities — old and new — and the environment-specific solutions required to effectively leverage tech.

• Digital Infrastructure

What does it take to be a successful entrepreneur in a developing country? According to Professor Tarun Khanna, it's all about partnerships. Partnerships are essential for entrepreneurs working here in Boston, and even more so in places like Bangalore and Bogota — where institutions to support new ventures are often missing or underdeveloped.

• Fintech / Digital Currencies

India is undergoing a “digital revolution." But not everyone is along for the ride. Research from Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs and IDEO.org explores how human-centered design can move the needle on digital products and services reaching overlooked populations.

• Fintech / Digital Currencies

FinTech is booming and everyone wants in. The catch? FinTech start-ups in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia region continue to face four obstacles: funding, visibility, customer education, and trust. FinTech Hive, the largest accelerator in the region, is here to help.

• Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning

Globally, one-third of cervical cancer deaths take place in India — a country that suffers from a low patient-to-pathologist ratio. Aindra Systems, a tech start-up from India, is tackling this disparity through AI. With automation comes diagnoses within 1-2 hours (instead of 5-6 weeks) and the opportunity to democratize access to quality care.

• Data and Analysis

How do we know if social enterprises and impact investors are actually improving low-income consumers' lives? We listen. Or at least, Acumen’s Lean Data team does. So far, they’ve had conversations with over 70,000 people in 27 countries to help inform future investment decisions.