"By embracing innovation and collaboration, we can overcome challenges and build a better future together."

In today’s rapidly evolving world, technology serves as a cornerstone for addressing pressing global challenges. At the heart of this movement are leaders like Anthony Virapin, whose work exemplifies how technology can be harnessed for positive social and environmental impact. As the Worldwide Leader of Microsoft's Entrepreneurship for Positive Impact initiative, Anthony has cultivated a career dedicated to empowering ChangeMakers and fostering sustainable innovation across the globe.

Anthony’s journey is a testament to the transformative potential of technology. With over 15 years of experience spanning marketing, business development, and ESG measurement, he has consistently championed the integration of technological solutions into addressing complex global issues. Through his leadership at Microsoft, Anthony collaborates with organisations like the World Economic Forum and Ashoka to create opportunities for impact-driven entrepreneurs. These efforts highlight the importance of combining corporate resources with grassroots ingenuity to achieve scalable solutions.

"Entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful tools to address global challenges," Anthony shared during our conversation. His belief in the synergy between technology and innovation underpins his work, demonstrating how impactful solutions can emerge when these two forces align.

Empowering Impact Startups

Microsoft's Entrepreneurship for Positive Impact programme provides a comprehensive platform for startups aiming to address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The programme offers a robust array of resources, including access to Microsoft’s cutting-edge technologies, mentorship from seasoned professionals, and integration into a global network of innovators and partners. Participants benefit from tools such as Azure cloud services, AI-driven insights, and workshops on impact measurement and responsible AI implementation, which equip them to navigate the complexities of building impactful solutions.

Anthony elaborated on the programme’s approach: "We work with impact startups that are creating scalable solutions to address societal and environmental challenges." These startups are supported not only with technological tools but also with access to essential business resources, such as connections to venture capitalists, marketing guidance, and partnerships with corporate leaders like EY. For example, a health-tech startup in the programme leveraged Microsoft’s AI tools to develop a solution improving diagnostic accuracy in rural areas, demonstrating the tangible impact of these resources. Specialised workshops on ethical AI and sustainability further ensure that participants are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact. These comprehensive offerings set the programme apart as a global leader in supporting impactful entrepreneurship.

Collaboration and Ecosystem Building

Anthony’s focus on building collaborative ecosystems is a key aspect of his work. Recognising that no single entity can address global challenges alone, he highlights the importance of forging partnerships with organisations like OpenAI, NVIDIA, and EY. These collaborations provide startups with access to cutting-edge technologies and resources, enabling them to scale their solutions effectively.

"Partnerships are essential," Anthony emphasised. "By joining forces with others, we can leverage diverse strengths to empower entrepreneurs and achieve greater impact." Microsoft’s collaboration with NVIDIA to provide startups with GPU credits and cloud services exemplifies this approach. These resources are critical for scaling AI-based solutions, allowing startups to innovate at an unprecedented pace. Additionally, partnerships with non-profit organisations such as Ashoka offer entrepreneurs guidance on measuring and communicating their impact effectively. Through these alliances, Microsoft creates an ecosystem where technology, expertise, and innovation converge to support ChangeMakers worldwide.

Ethical Innovation in the Age of AI

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integral to technological advancement, Anthony has championed the importance of responsible and ethical AI use. Microsoft’s AI design workshops and partnerships with organisations like the World Economic Forum ensure that startups in the programme are equipped to navigate the moral complexities of AI implementation.

"Ethical AI is a cornerstone of our approach," Anthony noted. By prioritising transparency, fairness, and inclusivity, the programme sets a standard for how technology can be developed and deployed responsibly. For instance, startups are trained to design AI tools that mitigate bias, enhance accessibility, and ensure data privacy. These efforts reflect Microsoft’s broader commitment to making AI a force for good.

Inspiring the Next Generation of ChangeMakers

Anthony’s work extends beyond supporting entrepreneurs; he also seeks to inspire others within Microsoft and the broader tech industry. Through initiatives like the Leadership for Positive Impact programme, he encourages employees to engage with startups, fostering a culture of innovation and social responsibility.

"It’s a mutually beneficial relationship," he said. "Employees grow as ChangeMakers, while startups gain valuable insights and expertise." One example is Microsoft’s collaboration with Fundación Capital, a social enterprise that works to combat poverty and improve financial inclusion. Through this coaching relationship, Microsoft leaders helped Fundación Capital accelerate its digital transformation, including the design of a data warehouse and machine learning models to enhance its operations across multiple regions.

Anthony also highlighted the significance of hackathons as an avenue for growth and innovation. Microsoft's AI-focused hackathons bring together employees, entrepreneurs, and external partners to co-develop solutions that tackle societal challenges. For instance, Agência Bori’s development of an AI-based scientific database for policymakers. These events offer startups an opportunity to test ideas, receive feedback, and scale solutions that align with the SDGs. These initiatives are really good examples of how tech can be harnessed as a force for good, and an engine for innovation.

A Model for Impact-Driven Innovation

While Anthony’s contributions are significant, he represents a broader movement within the tech industry towards impact-driven innovation. His work with Microsoft’s Entrepreneurship for Positive Impact programme highlights the potential of technology to drive meaningful change when guided by a clear commitment to sustainability and collaboration.

For aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals alike, Anthony’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of aligning innovation with purpose. As he puts it, "By embracing innovation and collaboration, we can overcome challenges and build a better future together."

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This is part of our ChangeLeaders interview series with corporate impact leaders sharing their journeys, learnings, and lessons from making an impact in the corporate world. If you are a ChangeLeader we should interview, please email us at info@wemakechange.org.

Interview & Article: James Sancto & Laura De Alba