Natural disasters are becoming more frequent and severe, placing immense pressure on governments, first responders, and communities. Traditional disaster management methods often struggle to handle the complexity and scale of modern emergencies. Smart resilience, the integration of advanced technologies in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, offers a way forward. By harnessing predictive analytics, real-time coordination, and citizen engagement, we can build a more adaptive and effective disaster management system.

The SAFE STEPS D-Tech Awards 2025 is the perfect platform for innovators developing smart resilience solutions. By participating, you gain access to funding, mentorship, and global exposure, ensuring that your technology reaches the communities that need it most.  With support from key partners, this is an opportunity to transform disaster management on a global scale. 

First, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) provides critical expertise in resilience-building. Next, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) brings extensive on-the-ground humanitarian experience. Meanwhile, Amazon Web Services (AWS) supports innovators with cutting-edge cloud technology to enhance scalability and impact. In addition, Asian Venture Philanthropy Network (AVPN) connects social impact investors with high-potential solutions to accelerate their deployment. The Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (MRANTI) has also joined the list of partners. MRANTI is Malaysia’s central research commercialisation agency that accelerates tech innovation from idea to impact.

Finally, as the leading tech media platform in Southeast Asia, e27 amplifies the visibility of breakthrough solutions. It connects innovators with investors, policymakers, and industry leaders. Together, these partners are creating an ecosystem where bold ideas can drive real-world change in disaster preparedness and response.

Don’t miss the semi-finals on 14 May 2025, where the Top 21 finalists will pitch live for a chance to present at Echelon Singapore 2025. RSVP now to witness the future of disaster tech in action.

Also read: Together for tomorrow: The role of collaboration in disaster tech innovation

AI-powered predictive models for disaster forecasting

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning are revolutionizing disaster preparedness. Predictive models use historical data, weather patterns, and real-time inputs to forecast disasters before they occur. These technologies help governments and emergency responders implement proactive measures, such as preemptive evacuations, supply distribution, and early warnings for communities. By identifying risks in advance, AI-driven insights can reduce casualties and economic damage, ultimately saving lives and resources.

Last November’s  D-Tech Spotlight session also highlighted advances in disaster management and monitoring. First, Alerto PH uses IoT and AI to deliver early alerts for natural hazards like storms and floods, enabling more effective emergency response. In addition, USHER Technologies monitors earthquake and structural health in real time, protecting critical infrastructure. These technologies aim to enhance disaster resilience through early warning systems, improved infrastructure safety, and predictive analytics.

Real-time coordination platforms for faster response

When disasters strike, efficient coordination between agencies, responders, and affected communities is crucial. Digital platforms are streamlining emergency response by providing real-time communication, resource tracking, and situational awareness. These platforms enable seamless collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, and local responders, ensuring that aid reaches the right places at the right time.

Notably, the inaugural 2019 D-Tech Awards celebrated FieldSight, a platform revolutionizing field operations with real-time monitoring and management capabilities, particularly in disaster-prone regions. Another example is the 2021 D-Tech Awards Non-Profit Category winner, The Stimson Center. Its Mekong Dam Monitor provides near real-time monitoring of water levels in dams. This allows responders to evacuate early, saving lives in affected areas.

Also read: Climate and health under threat: How tech can provide life-saving solutions

IoT-based infrastructure monitoring for damage assessment

The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming how we assess and respond to structural damage following disasters. Sensors and connected devices can monitor bridges, buildings, and roads, providing instant data on structural integrity. Governments and engineers can use this information to prioritize repairs, prevent secondary disasters, and allocate resources effectively. IoT-driven solutions are already being used in earthquake-prone regions to detect early signs of structural failure and trigger automated safety protocols.

An example of technology for infrastructure monitoring is Kineticast, a tool developed by Kinetic Analysis Corporation. Specifically, it can determine shutdown times and estimated time to recovery for facilities such as seaports, airports, and medical facilities based on forecasts and the results of oceanic and atmospheric models. This innovation plays a crucial role in ensuring the resilience of critical infrastructure in disaster-prone areas. 

Citizen engagement through mobile apps

Empowering communities with real-time information is key to improving disaster resilience. Mobile applications are playing a crucial role in early warnings, safety guidance, and recovery efforts. These apps provide real-time alerts, step-by-step safety instructions, and post-disaster assistance. Additionally, crowdsourced data from affected citizens can enhance situational awareness, helping responders target areas of greatest need. Encouraging public participation in disaster preparedness ensures that communities are not just recipients of aid but active contributors to resilience.

In the realm of connectivity, Kacific Broadband Satellites is addressing the need for reliable communication in remote regions, offering satellite-based internet and portable kits for disaster response. Similarly, Bike Scouts, through its SuperScout App, connects local communities and provides real-time disaster monitoring using AI and mesh networks. These technologies empower communities to respond more effectively to disasters, bridging communication gaps during crises and ensuring better coordination among responders.

Also read: Shaping disaster resilience in APAC through innovation with D-Tech Spotlight

Why SAFE STEPS D-Tech Awards 2025 matters for smart resilience 

The SAFE STEPS D-Tech Awards 2025 is committed to advancing life-saving disaster technologies. Innovators developing smart resilience solutions will gain access to funding, mentorship, and global exposure, helping scale their impact. With support from key partners like UNDRR, AVPN, IFRC, AWS, and e27, the Awards provide a unique opportunity to connect with decision-makers in disaster management.

Previous winners have successfully deployed groundbreaking technologies, from predictive flood mapping tools to advanced emergency response systems. By participating in the SAFE STEPS D-Tech Awards, innovators can bring their solutions to the forefront, ensuring that cutting-edge disaster resilience technology reaches the communities that need it most.

Top 21 Innovators Pitch Live on 14 May 2025

The semi-finals take place tomorrow, 14 May 2025! Join us to watch the Top 21 SAFE STEPS D-Tech Awards finalists pitch their innovative disaster tech solutions live for a spot at the Echelon Singapore 2025 finals. RSVP here and be part of the movement driving smarter, safer, and more resilient communities.

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This article is produced by the e27 team, sponsored by Prudence Foundation

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Featured Image Credit: Photo by Hush Naidoo Jade Photography on Unsplash, Photo by CDC on Unsplash, Photo by Brian McGowan on Unsplash

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