SPARK has been awarded the Digital Prosperity Award in the Empowering Society – Ethics category for its impactful initiative, Palestine Launchpad with Google in partnership with Udacity. Organised by the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO), the award recognises organisations that prioritise ethics and digital inclusion, ensuring technology empowers individuals regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, or socioeconomic background.

In 2024, SPARK applied for this prestigious award, demonstrating its strong commitment to advancing social progress through digital innovation. The Ethics category specifically honours initiatives that promote trust, security, and ethical best practices in the digital space. SPARK’s programme stood out for its focus on equipping Palestinian youth with essential tech skills, supporting career opportunities, and ultimately, job security.

After months of anticipation, SPARK received confirmation of its success and was invited to the Digital Prosperity Awards Celebration Night, a highlight of the DCO’s 4th General Assembly Gala Dinner. The event took place on February 18, 2025, at the King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Centre in the Dead Sea, Jordan.

What is the Digital Prosperity Award?

The Digital Prosperity Awards celebrate global efforts to accelerate digital economic advancement. The programme, hosted by the DCO, brings together impartial industry leaders and innovators to evaluate nominees based on their impact in promoting digital inclusion and tackling global challenges through digital progress. The Empowering Society – Ethics category specifically recognises organisations that leverage multi-stakeholder collaboration to drive ethical digital solutions, promote digital trust and integrity through responsible technology practices, and ensure equitable access to emerging technologies, empowering diverse communities.

The Impact of SPARK’s Award-Winning Initiative

Winning this award is a milestone in SPARK’s mission to promote digital inclusion and support marginalised communities. The Palestine Launchpad with Google programme has provided youth with free capacity-building opportunities, equipping them with digital skills that enhance employability and economic participation.

Dina Almasaeid, Regional Programme Director at SPARK, expressed pride in this achievement: “We are incredibly proud to receive the Digital Prosperity Award, which recognises our commitment to ethical digital inclusion. This award highlights the impact of our work and the positive change we are driving in the region.”

Additionally, SPARK also won a $200,000 prize, which will play a crucial role in advancing the Palestinian tech ecosystem. This funding will allow SPARK to broaden its impact, improve its services, and generate even more opportunities for young professionals to excel in the digital economy.

Looking ahead

This award goes beyond recognition; it reinforces SPARK’s dedication to ethical digital practices. As the organisation broadens its initiatives, it continues to champion responsible technology use that empowers communities, expands opportunities, and contributes to a more inclusive digital landscape.