The Potential of Open Source AI
"We believe AI, more so than any other modern technology, has the potential to increase human productivity, creativity and quality of life, while accelerating economic growth and unlocking progress in education, science and innovation." The Llama Impact Grants program aims to extend access to these opportunities by launching its second iteration.
Llama 3.1 Impact Grants
Applications are now open for the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants. The program seeks proposals that utilize the new features of the latest LLM model, Llama 3.1, for economically and socially impactful projects. "Llama 3.1 incorporates previously unsupported languages (including French, Hindi, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish and Thai) and is the only open source model that rivals the top AI models in general knowledge, steerability, reasoning, math, tool use and multilingual translation," said a spokesperson.
This year's awards will total $2 million USD with two application methods: an open call for applications and through regional events series. Eligible organizations worldwide can apply online for awards up to $500,000 USD.
A series of global events will provide technical guidance and mentorship to prospective applicants. Each event will focus on themes deemed urgent by local stakeholders such as civil society groups, businesses, NGOs and policymakers. Topics include agriculture, scaled business solutions, health tech and cultural preservation. Attendees may be considered for specialized awards up to $100,000 USD in addition to the open call award.
Inaugural Llama Impact Grants
The inaugural Llama Impact Grants program supported innovative uses of Meta’s open source AI models—Llama 2 and Llama 3—to address global challenges in education, environment and open innovation. Over 800 applications were received from more than 90 countries; finalists and runners-up gained access to mentorship and community support. Projects ranged from a math teacher assistant powered by Llama to AI models addressing information gaps in maternal healthcare.
"We are inspired by the diverse projects we’ve seen developers undertake around the world to positively impact their communities by building with Llama," stated a representative. "We can’t wait to see what else people build with Llama 3.1 in the coming year."
Learn more about the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants program and apply for consideration.
