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The Gates Foundation is investing at least $1 billion over the next two years into artificial intelligence tools for global health, agriculture, and education, primarily targeting the poorest countries. This initiative aims to accelerate progress against disease and poverty, though CEO Mark Suzman clarifies that AI cannot replace vital government funding cuts to global health services. The foundation emphasizes AI's potential as an equalizer, but stresses the importance of equitable development and deployment.
The 'Underpants Index' (Proof by Underpants) is a groundbreaking citizen science project that uses buried cotton underpants to effectively measure soil health, offering an accessible, engaging, and scientifically valid method for public participation.
TechCrunch's Startup Battlefield is returning to Sydney, Australia, on August 19, 2026, in partnership with Stripe. Ten startups will pitch, with the winner securing automatic entry to TechCrunch Disrupt's Startup Battlefield 200 in San Francisco. This return follows the highly successful 2017 event, which launched companies like HealthMatch and FluroSat (now Regrow Agriculture) to raise over $85 million combined and foster a vibrant Australian tech ecosystem.
Seattle startup Carbon Robotics, a pioneer in chemical-free weed elimination for agriculture, has once again garnered a significant endorsement from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human
The US Peace Corps has launched a new "Tech Corps" initiative to send STEM graduates and AI professionals abroad. This program aims to use artificial intelligence to solve challenges in agriculture, education, health, and economic development in partner countries, while simultaneously bolstering the US's strategic position in the global AI market against growing competition.
