Getting Involved with IEEE Humanitarian Technologies

IEEE offers countless opportunities for engineers, technologists, and students to apply their skills for social good through Humanitarian Technologies (HT). Whether your interest lies in community development, sustainable energy, disaster response, or digital inclusion, IEEE provides a powerful network, resources, and funding to help you make a lasting impact.

Join IEEE SIGHT – The First Step

The easiest way to get involved is to join the IEEE SIGHT -Special Interest Group on Humanitarian Technology . Membership is free for all IEEE members and opens the door to a global community passionate about “Technology for the Benefit of Humanity.” SIGHT members receive access to training, webinars, funding opportunities and the monthly newsletter with updated information on current IEEE humanitarian activities.

To join, simply visit the IEEE SIGHT website and sign up. You’ll be added to a growing network of over 65,000 volunteers worldwide working to address local challenges through sustainable technology solutions.

Forming a SIGHT Group

If you’re ready to take action locally, consider forming a SIGHT Group within your Section, Student Branch, or Society Chapter. Each group focuses on identifying community needs and designing sustainable solutions using engineering and technology.
Forming a group is simple:

1. Gather at least six IEEE members who share your interest in humanitarian technology.
2. Identify a chair and project focus (e.g., clean water, renewable energy, health technology, education access).
3. Review educational videos available on IEEE Learning Network (ILN) on Humanitarian Technology and Sustainable Development at IEEE.
4. Submit your application through the SIGHT website.

Once approved, your SIGHT Group becomes eligible for mentorship, project funding, and visibility through IEEE HT channels.

Funding Opportunities: Turning Ideas into Impact

IEEE offers several funding paths for humanitarian technology projects:

• IEEE Humanitarian Technologies Board (HTB) “Tech for Good” Funding – Provides grants for innovative pilot projects and scalable technology solutions addressing global challenges.
• Partnership Opportunities – Collaborate with programs such as IEEE MOVE, IEEE Smart Village, or IEEE EPICS in Engineering, which offer funding, mentorship, and technical expertise.

Your Skills Can Make a Difference

By joining IEEE SIGHT, forming a local team, and seeking project funding, you can transform your engineering expertise into meaningful impact. Every contribution—big or small—helps create sustainable, technology-driven solutions that improve lives around the world. For more information, visit sight.ieee.org