The Global Security Challenge (GSC), the world's leading security innovation competition is now open for entrants. This competition invites start-ups and SMEs from around the world to enter their security innovations, competing for prize funds totalling $500k. Innovators are offered unprecedented exposure, feedback from expert judges, the chance to present live to industry, government and investors at regional finals and the global Summit in London, with the best winning prize packs including mentorship from world-leading management consultancies.

The 2011 GSC is seeking hardware or software solutions that address public security needs, with a special interest in personal protective equipment, cyber security, intrusion detection, biometrics, emergency response situational awareness, aviation and public transport security, facility and personnel decontamination, among other categories. For full details, please follow this link.

The success of previous GSC finalists and winners, who have subsequently raised more than $80M in fresh capital, attests to the GSC's ability to identify vital security solutions and proves that companies don't have to win to benefit from participation. 2009 SME winner Kromek's liquid scanner machines were recently approved for use in airports throughout the EU, leading to the widespread belief that this will herald the end of liquid restrictions on flights. 2009 start-up winner Adaptive Imaging from Israel is contending under the UK INSTINCT TD2 Aviation Security showcase. 2007 regional finalist TenCube was acquired by McAfee last year in a multimillion dollar deal.

Kim Mettam, Owner and Business Director of 2010 winner iwebgate, said, "We're honoured and overwhelmed to win the GSC. Even the entry procedures have had major impact on our company." Kelvin Cheung, co-founder of 2010 regional finalist Coworkshop Solutions Ltd, added, "GSC is a good opportunity and platform for start-up IT companies to draw market awareness and seek funding. If you have a good product, I strongly recommend you participate in this event."

On the eve of the 2011 launch, GSC Director Richard Wilson said: "Every year, I am astounded by the high standard of entries from around the world. Regional and global finalists never fail to impress our expert judges with their innovations, so it's always exciting to see what the next year brings. GSC plays an invaluable role by connecting innovators with investors and end-users. From counterfeit medicine identification systems to liquid scanner machines, the innovations promoted by GSC save lives and protect lifestyles. This year, we aim to push the boundaries even further."

The role of the Global Security Challenge in advancing the development of security technologies was highlighted by Todd Brethauer of TSWG to the large audience attending the January 2011 TSWG Advanced Planning Briefing for Industry which kicks off their annual business cycle.

The Global Security Challenge falls under the security division, of OmniCompete, a London-based company that uses competitions to foster innovation, connect innovators with investors and find solutions to global problems. Entries can be submitted freely through the OmniCompete website and all submissions receive feedback from our panel of expert judges drawn from industry, government and academia.