The initiative, which builds on the success of the Cable & Wireless Childnet Awards programme, recognises the outstanding creativity of young people who continue to develop innovative Internet projects, which bring positive benefit to other young people world-wide.

The competition is open to young people (aged 18 or under), who are developing exciting online projects – either as individuals or in conjunction with a school or not-for-profit organisation. The competition is also open to those with exciting and innovative NEW IDEAS for using technology to benefit other young people. The competition’s ‘New to the Net’ category is specifically for those with new ideas and those from disadvantaged communities and developing economies.

Winners will receive an all-expenses paid trip for 2 people to attend the Academy programme, which will take place in London in April 2004. Winners will also receive a grant from a £30K web development fund to help them further enhance their web project.

Participants at the Academy will be offered:
•  specialist web support, technical advice and leadership training;
•  exclusive access to a team of Internet experts and mentors drawn from education, business and the public and voluntary sectors;
•  ongoing web development advice and guidance from the Childnet team;
•  the opportunity to interact with an online community of winners.

More information on the Childnet Programme may be had at:  http://www.childnetacademy.org.