[nraford]

Short answer from the website: "The first of its kind and scale, the Award is dedicated to transforming these exciting technologies into practical solutions for improving people’s lives today."

Slightly longer answer: Most of these technologies have been used for military and security applications to date. Those are important, but things are developing so rapidly and become so much less expensive (Moore's Law) that incredible new uses are becoming possible every day. The Award is about stimulating creative thinking about how to apply their potential for positive social application.

TL;DR: There is a important conversation to be had around adapting these applications to the public good. This requires imagination, leadership, and public support. That is what this award is about. Hope that answers your question.