The X Prize Ecosystem

Giving cash Prizes for solutions to thorny problems turns out to be a great way to tap the talents of geeks everywhere. The X Prize Foundation is just one source of funding for these contests, which encourage innovation in fields from mathematics to space travel.

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Organizer X Prize Foundation Challenge Win races using a clean, production-ready vehicle that exceeds 100 mpg Purse $10 million Deadlines 2009 and 2010 Payoff Lower greenhouse-gas emissions |

Organizers NASA, Volanz Aerospace Challenge Build a glove that makes it easier for astronauts to manipulate objects Purse $400,000 Deadline Fall 2008 Payoff Increased dexterity for space travelers

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