GSMA Foundation

The GSMA Foundation

The GSMA Mobile for Development Foundation, Inc. (‘The GSMA Foundation’) was created in 2007 to demonstrate the positive social, economic and climate impact of mobile technology in low- and middle-income countries.


The GSMA Foundation brings together mobile operators, innovators, governments, and the international development community and, with funding from donors and the GSMA, runs programmes in two streams:

Mobile for Development – Driving innovation in digital technology to reduce inequalities in our world

Singularly positioned at the intersection of the technology sector and the international development ecosystem, Mobile for Development stimulates digital innovation to deliver both large-scale socio-economic and climate impact through sustainable solutions in low- and middle-income countries.


The team’s in-market expertise informs partnerships between the mobile industry, tech innovators, governments, and the development sector. Their unique research and insights platform advances digital innovations and implementations that empower underserved and vulnerable populations to build a better future. With an unparalleled international voice and convening power, they foster dialogue and inspire action.


The Mobile for Development team of experts focus on advancing digital and financial inclusion – with a strong emphasis on gender inclusivity, climate action, humanitarian assistance, and investment in innovative digital solutions. The current programmes include:

  • AGRICULTURE – Supporting equitable and sustainable food supply chains that empower farmers and strengthen local economies.
  • CLIMATE – Unlocking the power of digital technology to create a low-carbon and climate resilient future.
  • DIGITAL INCLUSION – Increasing access to and adoption of mobile internet.
  • DIGITAL UTILITIES – Supporting urban resilience by enabling access to essential utility services through digital solutions and innovative partnerships.
  • EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES – Leveraging emerging technologies, such as AI and big data, to propel digital innovation.
  • FINANCIAL INCLUSION – Driving a commercially sustainable digital financial ecosystem that offers safe, innovative and inclusive solutions for all.
  • GENDER – Reducing the gender gap in mobile internet and mobile money services.
  • HUMANITARIAN INNOVATION – Accelerating the delivery and impact of safe, efficient, and dignified digital humanitarian preparedness and response.
  • START-UP INNOVATION – Accelerating local mobile tech solutions that are addressing key global challenges through grant funding and tailored technical assistance.

Learn more about our Mobile for Development programmes.

Our current geographic footprint

Our current geographic footprint

Tech4Girls

Tech4Girls is part of the GSMA’s commitment to reducing the gender gap in the tech and mobile industry, and aims to help younger women feel welcome and empowered in our industry and to overcome gender barriers.


The programme runs hands-on educational workshops for women, to learn about access and use of different technologies, hear from industry leaders, and gain a better understanding of careers in tech. This important work will shape the workforce of tomorrow, ensuring that this new group provides the diverse skills and perspectives needed for the industry to thrive.

Learn more about Tech4Girls.

Meet the Board

Meet the Team

Donors and Partners