Manulife and World Economic Forum Launch the Prospering in Longevity Challenge to Drive Health and Financial Resiliency

Core Insights - Manulife and the World Economic Forum have launched the Prospering in Longevity Challenge to foster innovation in preventative healthcare and financial well-being solutions aimed at enhancing human longevity [8][9] - The challenge invites global start-ups to participate, with applications open until July 22, 2024, focusing on solutions that promote financial resilience and preventative healthcare [1][8] Company Overview - Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider headquartered in Toronto, Canada, offering financial advice and insurance across Canada, Asia, Europe, and the United States [5][13] - The company employs over 38,000 individuals and has more than 98,000 agents, serving over 35 million customers globally [5][13] Industry Context - The global population aged over 65 is projected to double to 1.6 billion by 2050, presenting significant health and wealth challenges [9] - Currently, individuals spend approximately 50% of their lives in less than good health, with 12% in poor health [2] Challenge Themes - The first Longevity Challenge focuses on two main themes: strengthening financial resilience across longer lives and embracing a preventative approach to healthcare [10] - Solutions sought include tools for better financial decision-making and early risk factor detection in healthcare [10] Partnership Goals - The partnership aims to democratize access to tools that enhance financial resilience and improve physical and mental health through innovative solutions [3][9] - This initiative is part of a broader multi-year partnership between Manulife and UpLink, which has previously focused on nature-based solutions to climate change [11]