The TED Prize is designed to leverage the TED Community's exceptional array of talent and resources. It is awarded annually to three exceptional individuals who each receive $100,000 and, much more important, the granting of "One Wish to Change the World." After several months of preparation, they unveil their wish at an award ceremony held during the TED Conference.  The TED community then steps up and participates in the granting of the wish.  These wishes have led to collaborative initiatives with far-reaching impact.

TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design.  It started out (in 1984) as a conference bringing together people from those three worlds.  Since then its scope has become even broader.  The annual conference now brings together the world's most fascinating thinkers and doers, who are challenged to give the talk of their lives (in 18 minutes).  TED.com makes the best talks and performances, the ideas worth spreading, from TED available to the public, for free.