Category:

Social Enterprise

Orange Social Venture Prize 2017 for Innovative Startups in Africa and Middle East (50,000 Euros in Prizes)

by OFA February 28, 2017

written by OFA

Application Deadline: June 2017 21:00 GMT

The Orange Social Venture Prize 2017 contest aims to reward the best innovative and socially responsible business project in Africa and the Middle East. This 7th edition unfolds in two phases: first the candidates participate to a national competition, then an international jury gives a grand prize to the best national winners. Each time, the viewers of this site have a chance to add a name to the shortlist through a voting process.

The Orange Social Venture Prize aims to promote social innovation by supporting development through information and communication technologies (ICT). In addition to funding of up to 25,000 euros, Orange will provide support to the three winners of the Grand Prize for six months from business and telecoms professionals.

As in previous years, the OSVPAM will be awarded to innovative projects which make use of information and communication technologies to improve living conditions for the peoples of Africa and the Middle East in fields such as health, finance, education and agriculture.

New for this 7th edition, the competition will start with a national phase during which each of Orange’s 17 participating subsidiaries will examine projects submitted in its country and will designate three winners. The next phase will be an international one in which the winners of each country – 51 in all – will compete before an international panel of judges for the OSVPAM Grand Prize, with three winners receiving their awards during the AfricaCom Awards Ceremony in Cape Town, South Africa, on 8 November 2017.

Eligibility Requirements:

Entrepreneurs over the age of 21 and start-ups operating for less than three years can qualify for the Prize. There are no nationality requirements.
The projects must be implemented in one of the following countries in which Orange operates in Africa and the Middle-East, and listed in the Contest Rules.
The eligible countries are: Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Senegal, Botswana, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Mali, Guinea Conakry, Guinea Bissau, Madagascar, Niger, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Jordan and Burkina Faso.

Benefits

In addition to national prizes, the three international winners will receive 25,000 euros, 15,000 euros and 10,000 euros respectively, along with support from professionals in start-up creation and funding.

Awards For the international Grand-Prix awards are the following:

1st prize: the payment of an amount of €25, 000 (twenty-five thousand euros)
2nd prize: the payment of an amount of €15,000 (fifteen thousand euros)
3rd prize: the payment of an amount of €10, 000 (ten thousand euros).
Furthermore, accompaniment will be proposed to the 3 international Grand-Prix winners in the form of monthly telephone meetings during which the winners will present a progress report.
They will thus benefit from advice given by young company creation and financing professionals. This accompaniment will be proposed to the 3 international Grand-Prix winners during the six (6) months following attribution of the awards.
For the national prize, each subsidiary of Orange will offer lots and / or accompaniment specific to the country.

Selection Criteria:

The social and/ or environmental impact; the Projects will be evaluated according to the significance of their social and/or environmental impact (number of jobs created, effects on health, education, energy needs, etc.).
The degree of innovation provided in the use of digital communications resource (landline or mobile telecommunications) to enable the product or service to be launched.
The possibility of extending distribution of the product to several countries.
The financial viability of the project by succeeding in self-financing the project at the end of its launch period.
The realistic and operational character of the project (motivation of the team, contacts with the partners of the project, etc.)

Timeline:

Registration: February 28th – June 6th 2017
National Vote: July 7th – July 17th 2017
International Vote – September 25th – October 3rd 2017

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Orange Social Venture Prize 2017

February 28, 2017 3 comments

Call for Applications Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

Global Changemakers Youth Summit 2017 for Change Agents – Switzerland ( Fully Funded)

by OFA January 2, 2017

written by OFA

Application Deadline: Tuesday January 31, 6 p.m. Central European Time.

The Global Youth Summit 2017 will take place 16 – 20 July in Switzerland, and are now accepting applications ! The Program will be bringing 60 Changemakers aged 18 to 23 for a life-changing week of training sessions, networking and workshops.

In order to apply you must fill in an online application as well as send GCM a two-minute video describing your efforts to bring about a positive change in your communities and about your ambitions.

GCM will invite the strongest candidates to participate at the Summit, assessing their track record of advocacy, campaigning, social entrepreneurship, community activism and volunteerism, whilst ensuring geographical and gender representation.

Eligibility Requirements:

Global Changemakers are looking for the most inspiring young social entrepreneurs, community activists, advocates and campaigners from across the globe.
Participants must be between 18 and 23 years of age on the dates of the summit.

Benefits:

If you are selected, your flight (from your country’s main airport), board and lodging costs will be covered for the duration of the summit.
Additional personal expenses, as well as visas to enter Switzerland (for those who require one) will not be covered.

Application Procedure:

You will need to pay for your application fee (please make sure to copy your transaction number and paste it on the online application form), do a 2 minute application video (you can read the video instructions here) and fill in an online application form.
You can prepare your written application form using this PDF as a reference and copy- paste your answers directly to the form.

The application deadline is Tuesday January 31, 6 p.m. Central European Time.

The application process will go live on 1 of January. We suggest you prepare by reading these guidelines for your video and making sure you have a PayPal account or credit card ready to be able to pay the 35 USD application administration fee.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Global Changemakers Youth Summit 2017

January 2, 2017 2 comments

Fellowships Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

2016 IDEX Global Fellowship Programme for Aspiring Social Entrepreneurs,India (Scholarships Available to attend)

by OFA January 7, 2016

written by OFA

Application Deadline: March 31st 2016

IDEX July 2016 Global Fellows Program!

The 2016 IDEX Fellow Cohort will begin their fellowship in July 2016.

IDEX is a six-month fellowship for individuals seeking to gain emerging market experience while working to support enterprises that deliver social change to local and global communities.

Each year, the IDEX Global Fellows Program invites a select number of individuals to take part in six-months of intrapreneurial leadership training across India. Fellows gain emerging market experience while working hands on with socially-focused enterprises who deliver high impact solutions in local and global communities.

Eligibility Requirements:

Candidates must possess the minimum qualifications to be eligible for the IDEX Fellowship:

Bachelor or Masters/Graduate Degree (BS/BA/BBA must be obtained prior to start of program);
Age limit: 21-35 years old
Ability to perform in a high pressure environment;
English fluency (written and spoken);
Can obtain an India Business visa for a minimum of six months
Minimum of 1-3 years of professional work experience;
Excellent listening and communication skills (written and verbal)

You may be a good fit for IDEX if you…

Are eager to work in new and challenging environments with limited resources (e.g. this means internet may go down, transportation may be slow and things may not work as they would in your home country);
Are willing to embrace ambiguity head on, seek opportunities to learn and share your experiences with others;
Have the willingness and ability to quickly adapt and work in resource constrained environments (e.g. this means you don’t complain if wifi goes down or power goes out for a few hours);
Are seeking a self-directed fellowship experience where you are provided support and coaching but must also rely on your own creativity and grit to make the most out of your experience;
Are willing to work with low-income populations in developing economies;
Thrive in a start-up environment;
Have had professional successes and failures that you’ve learned from and can apply to new situations;
Have a passion for social enterprise and improving quality of life for under-served or under-resourced communities;
Have a strong desire to engage in an intense professional development experience (e.g. this means you love to learn through people, experiences and self-reflection);
Are committed to make an equity investment of time, energy and capital into your own personal growth and professional development.

Investment and Benefits

The six-month fellowship is filled with curated readings and content, professional development assignments, one-on-one coaching, four capacity building workshops… not to mention you’ll build relationships and a professional portfolio that will last a lifetime. Tuition for the 2016 Global Fellows Program is $3,950 USD.

WHAT’S INCLUDED FOR THE $3,950

3 week pre-fellowship virtual orientation (online)
1 week fellowship orientation (in India)
Lodging + meals + transportation during orientation (in India)
Full-time IDEX support staff on the ground
Monthly capacity-building modules focused on Managing Social Innovation, Advocacy & Outreach, Resource Mobilization and Impact Measurement
Working one-on-one with IDEX Resident Mentors over the course of your fellowship
Curated curriculum and fellowship assignments
Portfolio-development support & assistance
Access to Alumni Network

Tuition does not cover:

Airfare or travel to/from your placement city
Business visa costs
Daily living expenses (such as food, utilities and other miscellaneous expenses)

SCHOLARSHIPS

Through generous funding from IDEX donors and partners, we are able to a limited number of partial scholarships for the 2016 Program to select candidates.

IDEX SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Partial Tuition Award Amounts: $500 USD – $2,000 USD

IDEX Scholarship Fund provides partial scholarships for global fellows seeking to participate in the IDEX Accelerator program.

The InvestWISE Scholarship is awarded to the most promising candidates who demonstrate a commitment to continue working as a socially progressive intrapreneur post-fellowship. Scholarship recipients receive a generous IDEX tuition scholarship of $3,250.

Timeline:

PARTNER APPLICATIONS OPEN

JANUARY 1 – MARCH 31

IDEX invites enterprise partners to review partnership requirements and submit applications online. The application deadline is March 31st.

APPLICATION REVIEW

1) PARTNER APPLICATIONS OPEN

JANUARY 1 – MARCH 31

IDEX invites enterprise partners to review partnership requirements and submit applications online. The application deadline is March 31st.

MARCH 1 – APRIL 1

IDEX staff will review partnership applications and fellow job descriptions

FELLOW INTERVIEWS

2) APPLICATION REVIEW

1) PARTNER APPLICATIONS OPEN

JANUARY 1 – MARCH 31

IDEX invites enterprise partners to review partnership requirements and submit applications online. The application deadline is March 31st.

MARCH 1 – APRIL 1

IDEX staff will review partnership applications and fellow job descriptions.

APRIL 1 – APRIL 15

Shortlisted Enterprise Partners will recieve a fellow profile and will have the opportunity to interview the candidate during this period.

Partners Finalised:

APRIL 15 – MAY 15

Partners will recieve and sign IDEX MOU agreement with housing and living stipend requirements. MOUs must be finalized by no later than May 15th. The first stipend/housing payment will be due by June 1

ONBOARDING

JUNE 1 – JUNE 15

Enterprise partners will recieve onboarding checklist and check-in phone call with IDEX staff.

FELLOWS ORIENTATION

JULY 4 – JULY 8

Fellows participate in one week of intense training and immersion which consists of cultural training and capacity building workshops delivered by seasoned professionals and thought leaders.

FIELD PLACEMENT

JULY 11 – DECEMBER 22

Fellows first day at the enterprise placement will be July 11. Fellows work with one of IDEX’s social enterprise partners gaining first-hand knowledge and experience of working within an emerging market. Fellows last day at placement is December 22

Apply Now for the IDEX Accelerator Program 2016

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the IDEX Fellowship Program 2016

January 7, 2016 1 comment

Call for Applications Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

7th United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) Global Forum 2016 Youth Event, Baku, Azerbaijan (Fully Funded)

by OFA December 10, 2015

written by OFA

Application Deadline: January 17 2016, 11:59 PM Eastern Time (New York).

When: April 25 to 27, 2016

The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) is pleased to announce the launch of the call for applications for the Youth Event at the 7th Global Forum hosted by the government of Azerbaijan from April 25 to 27, 2016 in Baku.

Up to 150 youth from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds with outstanding track records in intercultural dialogue and youth work will be selected to participate in the Youth Event (April 25th), attend the Global Forum (April 26-27th) and thus contribute to the global narrative on social inclusion.

The Alliance of Civilizations is a United Nations political initiative of the Secretary-General. It was established in 2005 by former Secretary-General Kofi Annan, with the co-sponsorship of the Prime Ministers of Spain and Turkey. The primary mission of the UNAOC is to forge collective political will and to mobilize concerted action aimed at improving cross-cultural understanding and cooperation among countries, peoples and communities.

This unique international level opportunity for civic and intercultural participation is designed to give participants a chance to share their experiences, learn from each other, interact with key stakeholders and experts in their area of interest and network with a broader range of actors in the field of social inclusion and intercultural dialogue.

The Youth Event will also have an online component with the aim of maximizing the exchange of ideas among participants and preparation for the actual event. Its outcome will be a series of Narratives of Tomorrow, which articulate youth’s vision for inclusive societies, building on the positive contributions youth are already making in this regard

Requirements:

This is a call to youth from around the world wanting to build inclusive societies through understanding and respect among cultural and religious communities

Are you between 18 and 35 years old? *
Are you a member or a representative of a youth-led organization, network or initiative?
Have you undertaken initiatives at the community or policy level that foster social inclusion, intercultural dialogue, and promote peace?
Do you want to contribute to a global conversation on intercultural understanding and exchange innovative experiences?
Do you want to meet other youth leaders from all over the world and develop joint actions?
Would you like to take part in discussions that will help shape the United Nations’ agenda with regards to relations among different cultures?

If yes, apply now for a chance to be selected for a fully funded participation to the Youth Event and 7th UNAOC Global Forum in Baku, hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan.

Eligibility:

Eligibility criteria (all requirements must be met in order to be considered eligible):

Age:

Youth participants should be between 18-35 years of age during the entire 7th UNAOC Global Forum (born on or between April 28, 1980 and April 25, 1998).
This means that, on the day of the Youth Event, the applicant will be at least 18 years old but not older than 35 years old; and on the last day of the Global Forum, the applicant will be at least 18 but not older than 35 years old

Organization:

applicants must be members of (or affiliated with) non-government and non-for-profit youth-led organizations, networks, initiatives or movements (led by youth for the benefit of youth) and have the ability to consult with and reach a wider group of young people, audience or network.

Commitment:

Youth applicants must demonstrate commitment to diversity and pluralism, nonviolence, peaceful and inclusive societies

Language:

Command of English is sufficient to take part in the 7th UNAOC Global Forum. The applicant understands English very well; possesses intermediate to fluent levels of English, which allow her/him to participate to the conversation and input.

Passport:

The applicant holds an international passport valid until at least November 1, 2016. (For a visa to be issued, a passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months after the expected date of entry into Azerbaijan).

The application is duly completed,

submitted by the deadline and contains all supporting documentation, requested as part of the call. Half-complete applications or applications filled in other languages than English will not be reviewed and considered

* Applicants selected to the 7th UNAOC Global Forum will be aged between 18-35 during the entire Forum. To be considered eligible, applicants must be born on or between April 28, 1980 and April 25, 1998.

During the Youth Event, participants will be invited to engage with the Forum theme and subthemes and bring youth voices to the Forum discussions. They will also work on the creation of Narratives of Tomorrow as the main outcome of the Youth Event. These narratives articulate participating youth’s vision and solutions for the world to “live together in inclusive societies” and chart the course for the way forward. They will also:

Engage with UNAOC on the relevance of its activities for young people;
Grow their network and expand their activities through interaction with other youth interested in intercultural dialogue and social inclusion;
Gain greater access to and knowledge of the global youth movement for peace and its network.

Selection:

In order to launch discussions in advance, during March-April 2016 the organizers will invite all selected youth participants to engage in online consultations.
Participants will join an interest group to discuss one Forum sub-theme of their choice and start brainstorming on the elements of the Narratives of tomorrow to be finalized on April 25.
Online interactions will also help youth to virtually introduce themselves, learn more about their backgrounds, interests and their organization’s activities, thus maximizing the benefits of this event.

Timeline and logistics

December 7, 2015- January 17, 2016: Call for Applications to the Youth Event
By February 15, 2016: Review and selection of participants
By March 11, 2016: Issuance of letters of invitation and travel itineraries
March-April 2016: Online consultations with youth participants
April 24, 2016: Arrival of participants in Baku
April 25, 2016: Youth Event
April 26, 2016: First Day of the 7th UNAOC Global Forum
April 27, 2016: Second / Final Day of the 7th UNAOC Global Forum
April 27-28, 2016: Departure of participants

Benefits:

Costs covered by the organizers

As an official policy, the organizers of the 7th UNAOC Global Forum do not require payment of any participation fee.
All selected youth participants will have access to the Youth Event and Global Forum and will be provided with round-trip international ticket (economy class) to Baku; 4 days accommodation (in shared accommodation [double-rooms], with a participant from the same gender, from April 24 through April 28, A.M. hours).
Meals and coffee breaks will be provided during the official program of the Youth Event and the 7th UNAOC Global Forum, as well as shuttles to/from the airport in Baku.

Costs covered by the participants

Youth participants will be responsible for their transportation to and from the airport in their country of residence, visa costs (application fees, pictures, travel to consulate/embassy, courier service, etc.), medical insurance for their stay in Azerbaijan, as well as any incidental expenses, souvenirs, equipment, etc., and meals incurred outside of the official portions of the Global Forum.

E-Mail: [email protected]

Apply Now for the 7th UNAOC Global Forum Youth Event

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the 7th UNAOC Global Forum Youth Event, Baku, Azerbaijan

December 10, 2015 1 comment

2016 Social Entrepreneurship Forum Outreach Accelerator for Social Entrepreneurs, Stockholm Sweden (Fully Funded)

by OFA October 17, 2015

written by OFA

Application Deadline: October 26th 2015

When: Selected participants will be based in Stockholm during April 11-29 and September 5-23 2016.
Where: Stockholm, Sweden
Language: Language of instruction will be in English.
Cost: Free to attend, with most costs covered

Are you leading a project or an enterprise that is benefiting developing communities?
Are you passionate about making the world a better place?
Do you have the ambition to make your project/enterprise financially sustainable?
Take the next step by applying to the SE Outreach Accelerator!

The SE Outreach Accelerator is an exciting capacity-building program that takes place in Stockholm, Sweden. It is designed to equip the participants with entrepreneurial skills to enable them to sustain and scale up their impact through having building a financially sustainable enterprises.

The SE Outreach Accelerator is a program for founders of projects/social enterprises who are creating positive social and/or environmental impact in developing communities.

Eligibility Requirements:

The SE Outreach Accelerator is open for applicants with:

Any background or nationality
No requirement to have a registered enterprise prior to the program
Both for-profit and non-for profits enterprises
No requirement to already have a written business plan
No requirement to have revenue streams/profitability prior to the program

To apply

You are at at least 18 years old
You have an operating project/enterprise that targets social and/or environmental issues facing the developing communities
Your project/enterprises can be scaled and replicated to benefit more people
You are passionate about creating positive impact with your project/enterprise and have the ambition of making it financially sustainable from sources beyond donations
You are the founder of such project/enterprises with mandate to make executive deicisions.
You can attend the Accelerator program in Stockholm full-time during April 11-29 and September 5-23, 2016 and can commit to spend the time in between to build on your learnings and meet the program deliverables.
You can fully participate in a program conducted entirely in English (read/write/speak/comprehend)
You are open-minded and willing to share your experiences in a co-working, co-learning environment

Program Structure:

The first physical part of the program will be held in Stockholm, during April 11-29, 2016. During this time SE Forum will provide the participants with workshops, lectures, mentorship and individual coaching which will focus on assessing and understanding the business opportunities and drivers .
The second physical part of the program takes place during September 5-23, 2016. The participants then travel back to Stockholm to spend another three weeks together.
During this time they will meet with their mentors, learn from each other’s experience and participate in workshops and coaching sessions built around business executions, all to ensure that they leave Stockholm with the skills and confidence required to scale up their social enterprises in the future.

Benefits:

SE Outreach Accelerator in Stockholm is a program that is provided free of charge. This means that there is NO cost of attendance, or application fee associated with the program.

Furthermore, SE will cover some of the expenses associated with attendance which include:

Return flights, visa, insurance
Accommodation in Stockholm
Food allowance while in Stockholm
Internet
Travel card to use Stockholm public transportation

Apply Now for the SE Outreach Accelerator Stockholm 2016

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the SE Outreach Accelerator Stockholm 2016

October 17, 2015 3 comments

Contests Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

2016 Hult Prize Challenge for Social Enterprise (Win USD$1,000,000 to solve the world’s toughest challenges)

by OFA October 7, 2015

written by OFA

Application Deadline: December 18, 2015.

Win US$1,000,000. Compete in the planet’s largest student competition to solve the world’s toughest challenges.

2016 Hult Prize Challenge: Crowded Urban Spaces

Building sustainable, scalable and fast-growing social enterprises that double the income of $10 million people residing in crowded urban spaces, by better connecting people, goods, services and capital.

The Hult Prize Foundation is a start-up accelerator for budding young social entrepreneurs emerging from the world’s universities. Named as one of the top five ideas changing the world by President Bill Clinton and TIME Magazine, the annual competition for the Hult Prize aims to create and launch the most compelling social business ideas—start-up enterprises that tackle grave issues faced by billions of people. Winners receive USD1 Million in seed capital, as well as mentorship and advice from the international business community.

The Hult Prize is offered in partnership with Former US President Bill Clinton and the Clinton Global Initiative. It is hosted and supported by Hult International Business School. And it is generously funded by Swedish entrepreneur Bertil Hult and his family. It has been called the “Nobel Prize for Students” by media outlets world-wide.

Participating annually are thousands of students from 130 countries, representing over 600 institutions of higher education

Eligibility:

Open to universities, colleges and students on every continent.

The Challenge:

Each year, a critical social problem is selected by President Bill Clinton and a challenge issued.
Teams of 3-4 students are challenged to develop a custom tailored innovative start-up enterprise to eradicate the problem.
Access to Education. Clean water. Affordable housing. Clean energy. Solar Power. Food insecurity. Healthcare. These are a few of the issues competitors have tackled since the competition’s inception.

2016

The 2016 Hult Prize Challenge as selected by President Bill Clinton is Crowded Urban Spaces. Participants will look for ways to leverage connectivity to make life for the dwellers of these spaces better. Focus will be placed on doubling income through specifically better connecting the residents of these spaces to products, people, services and capital.

Benefits:

Regional Rounds of competition will be held in Boston, San Francisco, London, Dubai and Shanghai on March 11-12, 2016.
How will you change the world with US$1,000,000 in seed capital?

Compete Now for the 2016 Hult Prize Challenge for Social Enterprise

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the 2016 Hult Prize Challenge for Social Enterprise

October 7, 2015 1 comment

2016 Akili Dada Fellowship for Young African Women Leaders

by OFA September 17, 2015

written by OFA

Application Deadline: November 2nd 2015

Akili Dada is an international award-winning leadership incubator nurturing a generation of young African women from underprivileged backgrounds whose commitment to the underserved will transform their communities.

By selecting from and building the capacity of some of Africa’s most innovative young women change makers, we are meeting the urgent need for both more African women in leadership as well as the overall need for transformative leadership across the continent.

Akili Dada awards year fellowships to young African women leaders between the ages of 23-30 who are driving transformative change in their communities and are looking to grow their projects to scale and sustainability. The fellowship is an opportunity for young women to design and implement solutions to the challenges faced by their communities. The fellowship provides opportunities for dynamic young women leaders to learn essential skills and apply those skills in the context of their communities

Eligibility Requirements

Be a young woman between the ages of 23-30
Be from an economically disadvantaged background.
Have a Social Enterprise (a business with a social impact) or a Social Innovation (an initiative that has social impact).
Demonstrate previous leadership initiative and experience.
Have been working on your project for at least two years preferably on a full time basis
Be able to commit one year to the fellowship program (beginning January 2016 and ending December 2016)
Be able to attend trainings every other month for one week in Nairobi, Kenya
Must be able to communicate in English both written and verbal.

FELLOWSHIP BENEFITS

Akili Dada fellows will benefit from

Access to a series of seminars from experts in the social change field
Site visits to successful social entrepreneurship and social impact organizations
Access to a dynamic network of Akili Dada Mentors
Access to the Akili Dada network of funding partners and social change agents
Access to Akili Dada’s office facilities.

On completion of the year long program, fellows will possess the skills and resources required to lead a strong, healthy, accountable and sustainable organization that are bringing about measurable social change in their communities.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Fellows will be selected on the basis of

The strength of their social change project
Previous leadership initiative
Willingness to learn from peers and more experienced mentors
The ability to share their skills with peers and intended project beneficiaries
Young women from marginalized communities (women living with disabilities, pastoralists, Arid and Semi-Arid Land areas) are encouraged to apply

Complete applications must be sent via e-mail to [email protected] by Monday, November 2nd 2015

Apply Now for the 2016 Akili Dada Fellowship for Young African Women Leaders

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Akili Dada Fellowship for Young African Women Leaders

September 17, 2015 1 comment

Ashoka Youth Venture/University of Connecticut (UCONN) SUSI Student Leaders on Social Entrepreneurship 2015 Program (5 Weeks Training in the USA + Seed Funding).

by OFA September 16, 2015

written by OFA

Application Deadline: November 1, 2015

Ashoka’s Youth Venture is pleased to partner with the University of Connecticut and its “Study of the U.S Institute” (SUSI Program 2015) to support the Student Leaders from North and Sub-Saharan Africa to be Social Entrepreneurs.

After 5 weeks of intense learning in the U.S. the African students are ready to launch their own social ventures to support the development of their communities. Youth Venture will assist SUSI participants in this process.

The students already have identified social challenges that they want to address in their communities, they have strong passions and talents to be changemakers.

Eligibility Requirements:

The challenge is open to all individuals, organizations, and partnerships, including non-profit, for-profit, and public organizations.
Entries may should be specific and well-planned, whether they are new ideas or established strategies with proven impact.
Entries must be submitted in English.

Benefits:

After 5 weeks of intense learning in the U.S. the African students are ready to launch their own social ventures to support the development of their communities. Youth Venture will assist SUSI participants in this process.
Submit a complete version of your Action Plan and receive seed funding to implement your idea.

Assessment Criteria:

Winners of the challenge will be those that have submitted a written description of a project, invention, solution and/or initiative which, in the opinion of the judges of the challenge, best meets all of the following criteria:

Innovation
Social Impact
Sustainability

Timeline:

Entry Deadline : November 1, 2015
Virtual Panels : December 18, 2015
Seed Funding Approval : January 15, 2016
All projects funded : February 1, 2016

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Ashoka Youth Venture/UCONN SUSI Student Leaders on Social Entrepreneurship 2015 Program

September 16, 2015 2 comments

Contests Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

Ashoka/Boehringer Ingelheim Co-Creating a Healthier World Global Challenge for Social Entrepreneurs ($USD 50,000 Prize)

by OFA September 16, 2015

written by OFA

Application Deadline: 5 p.m. EST on October 28, 2015.

Co-Creating a Healthier World is a global challenge providing a collaborative opportunity for social entrepreneurs and Boehringer Ingelheim employees to co-create win-win proposals that improve access to healthcare.

Making More Health: Co-Creating a Healthier World is an opportunity for social entrepreneurs to spark the next generation of sustainable health solutions through collaboration with the business sector. This global challenge seeks social innovations that have a person-centered (rather than product-centered) approach to health and the potential to scale up through a partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim, a global healthcare company.

Eligibility Requirements

Making More Health: Co-Creating a Healthier World is open to the global public, including individuals and organizations (charitable organizations, public or private entities).

Making More Health: Co-Creating a Healthier World seek social innovations that have a person-centered (rather than product-centered) approach to health and the potential to scale up through a partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim. The Challenge is looking for innovations focused on these main areas:
● Improving the affordability of healthcare (e.g., microinsurance, reducing the economic cost of care);
● Remote care solutions for health management, treatment, and diagnosis;
● Increasing physical access to healthcare;
● Holistic solutions that work across the entire care continuum (including education, prevention, detection, treatment, management, follow-up);
● Models that engage other industry players (e.g., nutrition, athletic, mobility organizations).

Prize:

Winning proposals will receive cash prizes totalling $50,000 USD and all Finalists will be invited to pitch for additional investment and implementation support from Boehringer Ingelheim.

All entrants receive:

Thoughtful feedback from the Ashoka Changemakers screening committee, as well as like-minded peers through the Ashoka Changemakers Feedback and Review process
Access to Making More Health network activities and virtual events.

Semi-Finalists receive:

All of the above, plus:

Participation on the global MMH Network, with access to a closed MMH Co-Creation online group.
Match-making opportunities to initiate Co-Creation conversations with Boehringer Ingelheim employees and other experts within the Making More Health network.

Finalists receive:

All of the above, plus:

All Finalists will receive a travel bursary to attend the Making More Health Summit – Spring 2016, to be held in Ingelheim, Germany, where they will pitch their ideas to Boehringer Ingelheim.
At the 2-day Summit, the opportunity to work with Ashoka staff and Boehringer Ingelheim employees to refine their project proposals and pitches.
Finalists will be featured through Ashoka Changemakers media activities.

Winners receive:

All of the above, plus:

Cash prizes will total $50,000. One Grand Prize winning entry will receive a cash prize of $20,000. A second winner will receive $10,000, and a third winner will receive $5,000. A further $15,000 is available for special prize categories to finalists and winners
Mentorship from the Making More Health network
Invitation to pitch for additional investment and implementation support from Boehringer Ingelheim.

Additionally, two Early Entry Prize Winners receive:

Two Early Entry Prize winners will each receive $1000, for their top entries submitted before the early entry deadline on October 14.
Expert virtual consultation session with Boehringer Ingelheim and Ashoka Staff.

Timeline:

Phase 1 – Initial Entry and Semi-Finalist Selection

Challenge opens for entries: September 16, 2015
Early Entry Prize deadline: October 14, 2015
Early Entry Prize Winners announced: October 21, 2015
Final Entry deadline: October 28, 2015
Semi-Finalists announced: November 11, 2015

Phase 2 – Co-Creation Ideas and Teams Convene

Co-Creation Ideas Entry Phase Opens: November 11, 2015
Deadline to form a Co-Creation Team with at least one Boehringer Ingelheim employee, and to submit a Co-Creation Idea Entry Form: December 16, 2015
A panel of Ashoka reviewers will select the top Co-Creation Ideas to advance to the final round of judging.
Co-Creation Entry Proposals Due: December 16, 2015

Phase 3 – Co-Creation Proposals and Winners Selection

Finalist Co-Creation Teams announced: January 13, 2016
Co-Creation Teams participate in structured support program January-April 2016
Winners Announcement and Making More Health Summit: Spring, 2016

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Ashoka/Boehringer Ingelheim Co-Creating a Healthier World Global Challenge

September 16, 2015 1 comment

C&A Foundation/Ashoka Changemakers Fabric of Change: Innovating for a Sustainable Apparel Industry Challenge ( €100,000 Prize)

by OFA September 16, 2015

written by OFA

Application Deadline:18 November 2015 (17:00 EST)

C&A Foundation and Ashoka Changemakers have launched Fabric of Change: Innovating for a Sustainable Apparel Industry, an online challenge that seeks innovations for building a fair and sustainable apparel industry. Winners will receive prizes totaling more than €100,000 to support their solutions.

C&A Foundation and Ashoka Changemakers want your innovations for transforming the fashion industry. The Solutions should be systems-changing ideas including (but not limited to) those that:

Address workers’ rights, working and living conditions, and the livelihoods of farmers supplying the fashion industry;
Advance environmentally responsible materials, production methods, and supply chain processes;
Incentivize collaboration between brands, manufacturers, supply chain partners, and governments;
Promote transparency and mutual accountability between stakeholders;
Empower consumers to drive change;
Adapt models from other sectors to solve key problems in the apparel value chain.

Eligibility Requirements:

The Fabric of Change challenge is open to all individuals, organizations, partnerships, not-for-profits, for-profits, and charities from any country. C&A and C&A Foundation employees are not eligible to enter the challenge.
Entries will be accepted in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French. If language is a barrier, please contact Isabela Carvalho at [email protected].

Benefits

More than €100,000 in total prizes will be awarded to the winners to test, refine, or scale their solutions. They will join a network of social entrepreneurs, experts, and leaders committed to innovating for a more sustainable fashion industry.
All challenge finalists will receive a travel stipend to attend the Fabric of Change Summit to be held in the Spring of 2016.

Prize:

One Grand Prize winner will receive €50,000. Two additional winners will each receive €20,000
Two Early Entry Prizes of €1,000 each will be selected from the entries received by the Early Entry deadline, 21 October 2015
Three Young Innovator Prizes will be awarded to social innovators under the age of 24. Details to be announced shortly
All Finalists (approximately 10 – 12 individuals representing each Finalist entry) will receive a travel stipend to attend the Fabric of Change Summit

Youth Changemaker Prizes:

Two Youth Changemaker Prizes will be awarded to the most innovative ideas to create a sustainable apparel industry.

Winners will be invited to attend and participate in the Change Summit to be held in Spring 2016. Each will receive a stipend to cover the cost of travel. Entrants must be between the ages of 18 – 24 as of November 18, 2015.
Winners who are minors in their country of residence as of April 2016, will be required to obtain written parental permission to attend the Summit.
Selection of winners will be made by Ashoka staff and be evaluated based upon the criteria for the challenge of Innovation, and potential for social Impact.
Idea stage entries are encouraged.
Winners will be notified prior to, but publicly announced at the Summit, in April 2016.

To enter, please fill out the Youth Innovator entry form here.

Youth Blogger Prize:

The Fabric of Change Challenge will award one passionate blogger with a stipend of $1,000, plus a travel stipend to the Fabric of Change Summit, to be held in the spring of 2016 (location TBA).

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the C&A Foundation/Ashoka Changemakers Fabric of Change: Innovating for a Sustainable Apparel Industry Challenge

September 16, 2015 0 comments

Call for Applications Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

Ashoka Changemaker Xchange Summit 2015 for Young Changemakers, Istanbul Turkey (Fully Funded)

by OFA September 9, 2015

written by OFA

Application Deadline: Wednesday, September 30. 2015,

When:Wednesday December 9. to December 13. 2015

STANBUL calling! This next special edition of Changemakerxchange focuses on “Employment” and brings together young changemakers that tackle unemployment in the region (Europe, Turkey and MENA) with innovative and new ideas.

In response to the youth unemployment crisis in Europe, Turkey and the MENA Region this special edition Changemakerxchange summit focuses on changemakers who are running projects and ventures that build the employability skills and capacity of young people, foster entrepreneurship, bridge the skills gap or create new jobs and employment.

The Changemakerxchange summit in #Istanbul brings together 20 social entrepreneurs from Europe/Turkey/North Africa and the Middle East

Special Selection Criteria:

Applicants for changemakerxchange:
** need to run a venture that builds the employability skills and capacity of young people (soft or hard, technical skills) , fosters entrepreneurship, bridges the skills gap / creates new jobs and employment.

General Selection Criteria:

Applicants for changemakerxchange:

must be between 18-28 years old (however a limited number of 3 places is available for 29 and 30 year old applicants)
should lead, co-lead, have founded or co-founded their own social venture which is up and running and addresses a relevant social problem (an idea or volunteering for an organization is unfortunately not enough)
have to speak English well enough to understand and make presentations in English and participate in discussions
should have the skills and know-how to be part of a special community of collaborative young social entrepreneurs and be willing to play an active role in this community.
come from Europe, Turkey, the Middle East and North Africa (The Maghreb and Egypt).

Logistics:

ChangemakerXchange covers 100% of travel costs and the majority of the conference costs for all 4 nights and 5 days (incl. hotel accomodation, inner city travel, food, entrance fees and more).
However a modest participation fee of 100 EURO / 120 USD to cover part of the costs will be charged. (A limited number of stipends in special cases is available upon request – If you really do require a Stipend please let us know in the application form).

Please note: You may want to draft your application in a Word file before filling out the form, it does unfortunately not allow you to save your progress and if something goes wrong while filling out the form your info may be lost.

Apply now and be part of an extraordinary five days from Wednesday December 9. to December 13. 2015 along 20 of the region’s most inspiring young social entrepreneurs.

Apply Now to attend the Changemakerxchange summit in #Istanbul

E-Mail: Nick McGirl at [email protected]

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Changemakerxchange summit in #Istanbul

September 9, 2015 1 comment

Call for Applications Nigeria Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

2015 Shell Nigeria LiveWIRE Youth Enterprise Development Programme.

by lanredahunsi September 2, 2015

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: September 14th 2015

Are you aged 18-35 from Rivers, Bayelsa or Delta state?
Do you have a business idea?

Shell LiveWIRE is a social investment programme that aims to help young Nigerians explore the option of starting their own business as a real and viable career option.

Shell LiveWIRE Nigeria Programme is a youth enterprise development programme supported by The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC).

What:

It provides support, access to training, guidance, and business mentorship to young entrepreneurs and potential entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 35.

Whom:

The programme operates mainly in the Niger Delta region and aims to inspire, encourage and support young people aged 18-35 to start up their own businesses through the provision of finance and training for young entrepreneurs.

Apply Now for the 2015 Shell LiveWIRE Nigeria programme

September 2, 2015 1 comment

Angola Contests Nigeria Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship South Africa

CHIVAS REGAL THE VENTURE 2016 COMPETITION for Promising & Innovative Start-Ups ($USD1 Million in Funding).

by lanredahunsi August 17, 2015

written by lanredahunsi

The Venture is a global search to find and support the most promising start-ups with the potential to succeed financially and make a positive impact on the lives of others. The most promising start-ups – 1 from each country participating in The Venture – will make it to the global final and have a chance to win a share of $1 million in funding.

The Venture is about enabling a new breed of entrepreneurs to realise their potential and gain exposure for their businesses. With $1M in funding for the most promising and innovative start-ups – The Venture seeks to enable those that want do business differently.

Eligibility Requirements:

Entrepreneurs who have an established, for-profit start-up or business.
Businesses in start-up stage (which means the business has a working prototype of its concept, ideally with some demonstrable user traction, generating a maximum of US$500,000 – or local currency equivalent – in annual revenues and has been incorporated for no more than 3 years) or growth stage (which means the business is beyond the working prototype stage, and can show significant user traction and sales, generating a maximum of US$1 million – or local currency equivalent – in annual revenues and has been incorporated for more than 3 years).
You will have a strong vision, a compelling idea and a solid business plan.
You’ll also need to showcase how your business has a positive impact.
You must be over 25 to enter The Venture.
In order to enter as a potential start up or start up idea, your resident country must be in the list below.

a list of the countries that are participating in The Venture Year 2. In order to enter as a potential start up or start up idea, your resident country must be in the list below.

Angola, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic
Estonia, Germany, Guatemala, Gulf, Hong Kong. Israel, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, Panama
Peru, Poland, Romania, Singapore, South Africa,Spain, Thailand, UK, USA

chivas-the-venture-timeline

Prize:

The prize for the winner(s) of the Global Competition is a share of a fund of US$1,000,000 (the “Fund”), with the prize money available in two separate stages: the weekly consumer voting and also the final pitch and exposure for your business through participating in the Global Competition.
The Global Competition consists of the following three stages:
1. the Accelerator Week comprising a series of lectures, workshops and coaching sessions;
2. the Consumer Directed Competition which involves the allocation of US$250,000 of the total Fund on a weekly basis based on consumer voting; and
3. The Venture Final Pitch in front of a panel of Judges, which results in the allocation by the Judges of the remaining US$750,000 of the Fund;

THE VENTURE ACCELERATOR WEEK

Over the course of a week, all the finalists will take part in a variety of intensive business master-classes at some of the world’s leading businesses to help them sharpen their skills.

GLOBAL EXPOSURE

The global finalists will feature on The Venture website and crowd-funding site IndieGogo. Our international campaign will reach millions of people around the world, offering incredible exposure for your business.

LOCAL PRIZES

The Venture is an international project with some of the participating countries offering additional prizes. Check your local Terms & Conditions to discover what else The Venture could offer your business.

Funding

After announcing the global finalists, the public will be able to vote for their favourite to determine how $250,000 of the fund is distributed amongst the finalists.
Then, at The Venture Final pitch event in June or July 2016, each finalist will have a chance to pitch for a share of the remaining $750,000 in front of an expert judging panel.

Judging Criteria

Every submission will be judged on five criteria. These criteria are:

Market opportunity and size.
Demonstrable impact: measurable social or environmental impact and a model that can scale.
Sound business model and organizational strategy.
Financial feasibility and sustainability: can earn revenue.
Skills, experience and commitment of management team.

Timeline:

The Venture finalists will be announced in March, 2016.

The Accelerator Week – The Accelerator week will take place in March or April 2016.

The global final – The global final will take place in June or July 2016.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the CHIVAS REGAL THE VENTURE 2016 COMPETITION

August 17, 2015 1 comment

9th UNESCO Youth Forum 2015, Paris France – Young Global Citizens for a Sustainable Planet

by OFA August 15, 2015

written by OFA

Application Deadline: August 31st 2015

The 9th UNESCO Youth Forum – Young Global Citizens for a Sustainable Planet – will take place in Paris, France on the 26th to the 28th October 2015. The forum will bring together over 500 young women and men from all over the world to focus on issues related to sustainable development and global citizenship and ensure that the voices of future generations remain front and centre of the new development agenda.

Discussions at this years forum will focus on how young people, committing themselves as global citizens, can contribute to the creation of a sustainable planet.

unesco-youth-forum-2015

Application Criteria

You should be between 18 and 24 years old at the time of the Forum.
You should be able to show some leadership, engagement or initiative undertaken in your community/country/region or globally, preferably related to:
the post-2015 process and/or on issues related to the sustainable development goals, with specific focus on education and skills for sustainable development and employability, diversity and culture of peace, or rights and freedoms;
climate change issues, with specific focus on awareness-raising through media, mobilizing traditional knowledge and local environmental management practices, or youth solutions to address climate change
You should be able to cover the expenses related to your travel and stay in Paris on the occasion of the Forum.
You should not have participated in previous editions of the Forum.

Documents to provide

Application form
CV
Letter of motivation
Copy of your passport
The online application form is to be filled in, and the accompanying documents uploaded, at this link.

Should you not have the possibility to submit the form and documents online, please download the fo

rm, and return the completed form with the accompanying documents by e-mail to [email protected].

The deadline for the submission of all applications is Monday 31 August 2015, 8.30 am (GMT)

Only complete applications received by this date will be considered

Apply Now to attend the 2015 UNESCO 9th Youth Forum

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the 9th UNESCO Youth Forum

August 15, 2015 2 comments

Forbes Under 30 $1 Million Change the World Competition for Young Social Entrepreneurs.

by lanredahunsi July 23, 2015

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: August 26, 2015 at 11:59PM Eastern Time

The Forbes Under 30 $1 Million Change the World Competition is the largest-ever competition for young social entrepreneurs, funding those disruptive and scalable ideas that address global challenges.

The competition calls on social entrepreneurs with disruptive and scalable ideas with the potential to change the world. It is open to both nonprofit and for-profit enterprises. This is not a business plan competition – organizations or companies must already be in operation and the prize money should be utilized to accelerate the most promising ideas.

The challenge will award a total of $1,000,000 USD in cash and in-kind prizes. The awards and/or investments will come from the following Sponsoring Organizations: The Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation, the Case Foundation, the Pratt Foundation, the Keywell Foundation and entrepreneur Bob Duggan, plus an in-kind advertising grant from Forbes.

Eligibility

The challenge is open to:

Active social entrepreneurs who are under the age of 30 at the time of the competition (i.e., born after October 6, 1985) who are a founder, co-founder or top executive of their organization.
Applicants from anywhere in the world.
Those who are already actively engaged in a social enterprise – this is not a business plan contest, but rather one that will reward and accelerate those entrepreneurs already making a difference.
Both nonprofit and for-profit social entrepreneurs – finalists will come from both categories.

Benefits:

Five or six finalists, selected from the complete pool of competitors, will receive a cash award of $100,000 USD.
They will then compete on-stage at the Forbes Under 30 Summit in Philadelphia on October 6, 2015 in front of 2,000 world-class mentors and the best young entrepreneurs and game-changers in the world, as culled from the Forbes 30 Under 30 lists.
The overall winner will receive at least $400,000 USD in additional cash and in-kind support, bringing their award total to at least $500,000 USD, and the overall award total to $1,000,000
Five or six $100,000 USD prizes (or equivalent); and
One $400,000 USD prize (or equivalent) to the overall winner
Finalists will be invited to participate in the Under 30 Impact Lab – an afternoon during which the attendees at the Under 30 Summit will work with challenge finalists to help them solve problems and accelerate their growth.

Selection

Applications will be screened by the Wharton Social Impact Initiative of the University of Pennsylvania. The finalists will be announced in early September, before competing on the main stage at the Forbes Under 30 Summit on October 6.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Forbes Under 30 $1 Million Change the World Competition for Young Social Entrepreneurs.

July 23, 2015 2 comments

Algeria Egypt Libya Morocco Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship Tunisia

2016 UNAOC Entrepreneurs for Social Change (E4SC) Programme , Torino Itlay (Fully Funded)

by lanredahunsi July 6, 2015

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: 22nd July 2015, 11:59 PM, New York time.

When: 18th to 25th October 2015 in Torino, Italy

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a social entrepreneur?
Do you want to create social and economic opportunities for you and for others around you?
Do you want to improve intercultural relations in your community and across the Mediterranean?
Do you have the courage to challenge yourself?

The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and Fondazione CRT are organizing an 8-day training which will bring together 20 young people from the Euro-Mediterranean region to enhance the skills needed to boost a business idea with a social mission, and be a powerful motor of economic development and social inclusion.

In addition to this training, the selected 20 young adults will receive feedback from peers,

mentoring from experienced social entrepreneurs and will be matched with potential investors. The event will be organized at Fondazione CRT premises in Torino (Italy) from 18 to 25 October 2015.

Entrepreneurs for Social Change is a one-year programme of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and Fondazione CRT, which aims to support young social entrepreneurs in the Euro-Med region.

The programme offers a one-week intensive training for 20 social entrepreneurs who are selected through a competitive call for applications from the 26 countries that border the Mediterranean Sea. Ten experts from the roster of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations provide training sessions on building business models, fundraising, generating employment, facilitating intercultural understanding, engaging local communities, and addressing marginalization.

After the training, the social entrepreneurs have the opportunity to benefit from both one-on-one and group mentoring sessions. Through these, participants practically apply lessons they learn during the training, approach potential investors, strengthen their business plans, and test their social impact. One mentor works with each trainee for a period of 9 months to incubate his/her entrepreneurial idea and help move it forward.

The applicant:

• Has a social enterprise (or be in the process of establishing a social enterprise) which is either leveraging cultural and religious diversity or promoting broader social change and can potentially create economic opportunities and social inclusion for a specific community or across communities.

The social enterprise can already be established or be in itsinitial stages, the applicant must demonstrate how its idea is grounded and sustainable.

• Has a date of birth between 15th October 1979 and 15th October 1997.

• Holds a passport valid until at least 30th April 2016 (for a visa to be issued, a passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months after the expected date of entry into the country issuing the visa).

• Lives in and be of nationality from a Euro-Med country.

• Is fluent in spoken English

Eligible Countries

Albania, Algeria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Greece, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Kosovo, Lebanon, Libya, Macedonia, Malta, Montenegro, Morocco, Palestinian territories, Portugal, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey

Application Process:

You need to submit an application package which must include the following documents:

• The application form (see separate document);

• A scan of the identification page of your current valid international passport

• Your resume/curriculum vitae, in English, with a maximum of 3

Selection criteria

Organizers of the training will adopt the following selection criteria to shortlist the

best 40 candidates:

• Applicant’s background;

• Objectives of the social enterprise;

• Capacity to frame social context and diversity issues;

• Capacity to address cultural/religious challenges;

• Capacity of the social enterprise to generate employment;

• Financial sustainability of the social enterprise.

The shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by a selection panel between 25th July

and 15th August 2015.

The shortlisted candidates will be required to send additional documents at the request of the organizers. The 20 successful candidates will be selected by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations

Benefits:

There is no participation fee,
All selected participants will be provided with round0trip international tickets to Torino

(most direct route, economy class) and accommodation once in Torino. Meals and

coffee breaks will be provided during the training.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the 2016 UNAOC Entrepreneurs for Social Change (E4SC) Programme

July 6, 2015 0 comments

british-ecological-society-grant-for-africans

2015 British Ecological Society Grant for Ecologists in Africa (£10,000 Grant)

by lanredahunsi June 22, 2015

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: 5pm (BST), Friday 11 September 2015

This grant provides support for ecologists in Africa to carry out innovative ecological research. The BES recognises that ecologists in Africa face unique challenges in carrying out ecological research and this grant is designed to provide them with support to develop their skills, experience and knowledge base as well as making connections with ecologists in the developed world.

Eligibility and Conditions

Applicants must:

be a scientist and a citizen of a country in Africa or its associated islands,
that is a ‘low-income economy’ or ‘lower-middle-income economy’ according to the

World Bank categorization
have at least an MSc or equivalent degree
be working for a university or research institution in Africa (including field centres, NGOs, museums etc.) that provides basic research facilities
carry out the research in a country in Africa or its associated islands

The proposed work must be completed within 18 months

Benefits:

The maximum value of a grant is £8,000 for research. An additional sum up to £2,000 may be requested to fund travel to help grantees develop connections with other ecologists outside their usual peer group.
Travel funds are available for the applicant to spend time working with ecologists in developed countries where facilities and experience will help the grantee on return to their own institution.

How to Apply:

Applications will only be assessed once the online referee statement of support has been received from the applicant’s institution, and if applying for travel funds, from the overseas host institution.
This referee statement should include why the project is important, what support will be given to the applicant and a statement that any equipment bought for the project will be made available for anyone in the host institution to conduct ecological research.

Applications for this grant must be made using the BES online application form.

IMPORTANT: Only complete questions 3, 3a and 3b if you are requesting additional travel funds (see above).

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the British Ecological Society Grant for Ecologists in Africa

June 22, 2015 0 comments

Apply to participate in the 2015 Conference of Youth (COY11), Paris, France

by lanredahunsi June 19, 2015

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: June 30th 2015

Do you want to get involved in the discussion on the next universal agreement on climate change?

From 26 to 28 November, only a few days before the COP21, 5000 young people from all around the world will gather for the 11th Conference of Youth. Not only this event will be one of the biggest gatherings of youth in France, but it will also lead to an unprecedented mobilization in the field of international climate negotiations.

The Conference Of Youth is the gathering of young people occurring every year before the conference of Heads of State on climate (Conference of Parties/COP), organized for the first time in France. This year, the COP21 has a major goal: to achieve a legally binding and universal agreement on climate change.

During 3 days, almost 5000 young people are expected for an unprecedented mobilization, to build a real momentum, and strengthen the visibility of actions and the expertise of young people in favor of a more sustainable and desirable lifestyle.

Eligibility

The call for projects is open to all, whether you are an organisation, a charity, a social enterprise, an educational institute, an individual, as long as you recognise yourself in the message conveyed by the 11th COY.
Priority is given to projects led by young people or driven by an inter-generational purpose.
Each project must possess human and material resources specific to its realization (except for basic furniture).
A list of the required furniture (tables, chairs, projector, etc.) should be sent to the organizers within the same time limit as the applications, otherwise the availability of this equipment will not be guaranteed.
Finally, profit-making activities for commercial gain will not be accepted.

The organization of the COY11 is coordinate by several youth associations with strong environmental engagement: Avenir Climatique, CliMates, Fédération du Scoutisme Français, REFEDD, the movement WARN! and YOUNGO.

To be guaranteed an accommodation (youth hostel or couchsurfing) at an attractive price, benefit from reduced prices at registration and be assisted with your visa application, pre-register here

If you wish to submit a project, share an experience, show an artistic project, facilitate a workshop, a debate, a conference, or any other format, use your creativity and participate! Start your application here.

#Build your COY!

If you wish to submit a project, share an experience, show an artistic project, facilitate a workshop, a debate, a conference, or any other format, use your creativity and participate!

Submit a Proposal

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Conference of Youth.

June 19, 2015 2 comments

2015 Google Impact Challenge for Disabilities (USD$20 million Grant)

by lanredahunsi May 29, 2015

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: September 30, 2015 at 2:00 pm, Pacific Daylight Time.

An open invitation to aim our collective might at creating real, impactful change.

Google.org is looking for your biggest and best ideas for how technology can expand opportunity and independence for people with disabilities. Google is committing USD 20 million in grant funding toward this goal, some of which may be awarded to organizations identified through this call for ideas.

Exciting ideas are already becoming a reality. For instance, 3D-printed prosthetic limbs, eye-controlled communication software, and remote hearing diagnostics are part of a wave of current innovations that have the potential to change the trajectory of solutions available to people with disabilities.

Google hopes that the Google Impact Challenge will propel even more technological innovation that will create meaningful and positive change for people with disabilities.

Requirements:

Organization Eligibility

Nonprofits and public charities from any country are eligible to submit an idea. Your organization must hold valid and current charity status as determined by the legislation of your country of incorporation.

Language

All ideas must be submitted in English.

How to Apply

Ideas must be submitted via online portal and will be evaluated on a rolling basis. Ideas should be

transformative and address not only the change you seek for your organization, but also the change you want to see in the world.
apply technology in a way that is innovative and effective. Technology shouldn’t just make your existing work more efficient; it should create or enable entirely new solutions and approaches.
involve the development of cutting-edge technology.
be able to articulate a way in which it could ultimately reach a large number of people.

Submit your Idea for the Google Impact Disability Challenge 2015

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Google Impact Disability Challenge

May 29, 2015 0 comments

Call for Applications Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

2015 Ashoka ChangemakerXchange – Training for Young Social Entrepreneurs, Istanbul, Turkey.( Fully Funded)

by lanredahunsi January 18, 2015

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: February 2nd 2015 (12:00 pm CET).

When: May 13 to May 17, 2015

Originally created in Istanbul by Ashoka and supported by the Robert Bosch Stiftung, the ChangemakerXchange is a global collaboration platform for young social entrepreneurs. It gathers some of the world’s most exciting changemakers at summits around the world for the exchange and co-creation of ideas. The ChangemakerXchange now brings together young social entrepreneurs from 25 different countries in Europe, Turkey and North Africa.

Objectives

Identify and connect young innovators at summits around the world to build a community of like minded individuals (human connection)
create spaces and opportunities for the exchange of ideas/resources/ challenges/best case practices/tools and experiences.(peer to peer learning)
facilitate the co-creation of new ideas and cross border collaborations. (co-creation)

Eligibility:

Selection Criteria:

** You are between 18-28 years old. There are 3 places available for Changemakers up to 30 years old!
** You lead, co-lead, founded or co-founded your own social venture which is up and running and addresses a relevant social problem
** You speak English well enough to understand and make presentations in English and participate in discussions
** You are have the skills, know-how to be part of a special community of collaborative young social entrepreneurs and you are willing to play an active role in this community.

Cost

ChangemakerXchange is kindly supported by the Robert Bosch Stiftung and covers 100% of all travel and most of the conference costs for all 5 days (incl. inner city travel, food, entrance fees and more).
Participants will only be asked to pay a modest participation fee of $120 to cover part of the costs (A limited number of stipends in special cases are available upon request).

Deadline for applications is February 2nd and all applicants will be notified by February 9th.
For any questions please reach out to [email protected]

Apply Now for the 2015 Ashoka Changemaker Xchange in Turkey

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Ashoka Changemaker Xchange in Turkey

January 18, 2015 2 comments

Fellowships Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

2015 Echoing Green Global Fellowships for Social Entrepreneurs ( A stipend of $80,000 for individuals (or $90,000 for two-person partnerships)- Fully Funded

by OFA December 1, 2014

written by OFA

Application Deadline: January 5, 2015, 2:00 PM (14:00) ET

The Global Fellowship is Echoing Greens’ twenty-seven year-old program for smart leaders who are deeply connected to the needs and potential solutions that may work best for their communities. Any emerging social entrepreneur from any part of the world working to disrupt the status quo may apply.

Echoing Green Funding:

• Stipend:

Fellows receive up to $90,000 of unrestricted funding for their organization that can be spent on anything from programming to salaries.

• Health Insurance Stipend:

Echoing Green believes Fellows need to be healthy to carry out their work, so both domestic and international Fellows can be reimbursed up to $4,000 a year for health insurance payments.

• Leadership Development Funds:

Echoing Green believes in the importance of investing in the Fellows as leaders, so each Fellow receives $1,000 a year for professional development opportunities such as leadership coaching, attending academic courses, or visiting other Echoing Green Fellows’ organizations

Echoing Green manages three distinct Fellowship Programs. In Phase 1 of the application all applicants will automatically be considered for the Global Fellowship and may opt-in to be considered for the Black Male Achievement and/or Climate Fellowship.

The 2015 Fellowships will be awarded to individuals or partners who will receive:

• A stipend of $80,000 for individuals (or $90,000 for two-person partnerships) paid in four equal installments over two years

• A health insurance stipend

• A yearly professional development stipend

• Leadership development and networking gatherings

• Access to technical support and pro bono partnerships to help grow their organization and a dedicated Echoing Green portfolio manager

• A community of like-minded social entrepreneurs and public service leaders, including the Echoing Green network of nearly 600 Fellows at Large working all over the world

Eligibility

In order to be eligible for an Echoing Green Fellowship, the applicant must be:

Over 18 years old
Fluent in English
Able to commit a full 35 hour work week to their organization.

In order to be eligible for an Echoing Green Fellowship, the organization must be:

The original idea of the applicant(s)
In its start-up phase, usually within the first two years of operation
Independent and autonomous

There are often some misconceptions about what types of organizations are eligible for the Echoing Green Fellowship. Here is some clarification about organizations that are eligible:

An organization can be either a non-profit, a for-profit, or hybrid.
An organization does not only have to be run by one individual. Partnerships can apply for a Fellowship
Organizations still in the idea phase are eligible

There are some programs we will not fund. The following types of organizations are not eligible to apply:

Students, scholarships, or research projects
Lobbying or faith-based organizations
Existing organizations which have grown past their start-up phase

Phase 1: Online Application

Opens: December 2, 2014, 12:00 PM (Noon) ET
Closes: January 5, 2015, 2:00 PM (14:00) ET
Typical number of applicants at this stage: 2000-4000
Requirements:

Basic demographic info
Short essays about yourself, your idea/organization, and your partner (if applicable)
Resume

Semi-Final Round: Online Application and Supplemental Materials

Opens: February 12, 2015
Closes: March 2, 2015
Typical number of applicants at this stage: 400-500
Requirements:

Additional essays about yourself and your organization
Budget Questions
Competitive Analysis
Letters of Reference
Phone interview (if needed)

Finalist Week: In-Person Interview

Opens: May 11, 2015
Closes: May 16, 2015
Typical number of applicants at this stage: 100
Requirements:

Trip to New York City (funded by Echoing Green)
60-second idea pitch
Panel interviews

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the 2015 Echoing Green Fellowship

December 1, 2014 0 comments

Call for Applications Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

2015 Social Entrepreneurship Forum Outreach Accelerator for Social Entrepreneurs, Stockholm Sweden (Fully Funded)

by lanredahunsi October 12, 2014

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline:November 2nd, 2014.

When: April 13th-June 5th, 2015
Where: Stockholm, Sweden
Language: Language of instruction will be in English.
Cost: Free to attend, with most costs covered.

Are you leading a project or an enterprise that is benefiting developing communities?
Are you passionate about making the world a better place?
Do you have the ambition to make your project/enterprise financially sustainable?
Take the next step by applying to the SE Outreach Accelerator!

The SE Outreach Accelerator is an exciting 8 week program that takes place in Stockholm, Sweden. It is a capacity-building program that is designed to equip the participants with entrepreneurial skills to enable them to scale up their impact and accelerate their growth, thereby creating a multiplier effect of the positive impact they are having.

The SE Outreach Accelerator is a program for:

founders of projects/enterprises
change makers
social entrepreneurs who are creating positive social and/or environmental impact in developing communities.

Eligibility Requirement:

The SE Outreach Accelerator is open for applicants with:

Any background, age, or nationality
No requirement to have a registered enterprise prior to the program
Both for-profit and non-for profits enterprises
No requirement to already have a written business plan
No requirement to have revenue streams/profitability prior to the program

Requirements:

To apply we require that:

You have an operating project/enterprise that targets social and/or environmental issues facing the developing communities
Your project/enterprises can be scaled and replicated to benefit more people
You are passionate about creating positive impact with your project/enterprise and have the ambition of making it financially sustainable from sources beyond donations
You are the founder of such project/enterprises and can attend the 8 week Accelerator program in Stockholm full-time during April 13^th – June 5^th 2015
You can fully participate in a program conducted entirely in English (read/write/speak/comprehend)
You are open-minded and willing to share your experiences in a co-working, co-learning environment

Cost

SE Outreach Accelerator in Stockholm is a program that is provided free of charge. This means that there is NO cost of attendance, or application fee associated with the program.

Furthermore, SE Outreach Accelerator Programme will cover some of the expenses associated with attendance which include:

Return flights, visa, insurance
Accommodation in Stockholm
Fixed daily food allowance in Stockholm
Internet
Travel card to use Stockholm public transportation

How to Apply:

Fill the Application Form
Submit the completed application with attachments to [email protected].
You will recieve a confirmation of submission within 48 hours.
Applications submitted after November 2nd will not be considered.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the SE Outreach Accelerator Programme 2015

October 12, 2014 0 comments

Call for Applications Social Enterprise

The Global Social Benefit Incubator Online Programme 2013 (Online Training Program for Worldwide Social-Entrepreneur Ventures).

by lanredahunsi July 5, 2013

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: July 15 2013

Applications are being accepted for GSBI Online, the online version of Santa Clara University’s highly regarded, 11-year-old training program for worldwide social-entrepreneur ventures, the Global Social Benefit Incubator or GSBI™.

Up to 20 ventures will be selected and enrolled in the six-month program, each receiving a scholarship to participate. Those selected will be notified in early September.

GSBI Online helps early-stage social enterprises that have the potential to create significant social impact through financially sustainable operations. Each accepted entrepreneur will be guided by two mentors who will provide hands-on assistance: an experienced Silicon Valley corporate-level executive, and a local in-country executive.

The rigorous, structured curriculum will last from October 2013 through March 2014. Successful participants will graduate armed with a fundable plan for scaling their organization, including a business-plan summary presentation, an “elevator pitch,” and a one-year operating plan.

GSBI Online Overview

GSBI Online focuses on organizations which have the potential to create significant social impact and to conduct financially sustainable operations. Compared to our program for more advanced enterprises, the GSBI Accelerator, GSBI Online targets earlier stage social enterprises.

The curriculum uses GSBI’s proven methodology, is available on-demand, and incorporates best practices of online learning. Working at their own pace over a maximum of seven months, each entrepreneur will participate in nine online modules, guided by both a GSBI-provided Silicon Valley mentor and a local mentor, identified by the entrepreneur (with GSBI’s assistance if required).

What the GSBI Online modules will focus on

Mission, opportunity, strategies
External environment
Target market segmentation
Value chain analysis
Organization and human resources
Business model
Success metrics
1-year operating plan
Financing strategy

What will the program will teach

GSBI Online uses a tested approach of high-touch one-to-one mentoring with successful Silicon Valley entrepreneurs and CEOs with a structured curriculum delivered entirely online and designed to create the following tangible outputs:

Business plan summary
Elevator pitch
1-year operating plan
Innovation profile (a 2-page overview/executive summary used for marketing purposes)

Entrepreneurs are expected to dedicate 5 to 10 hours/week over the six months of the program, working with their mentors to complete lessons by assigned deadlines. Program completion is marked by a final graduation presentation delivered by the entrepreneur to an audience of investors, mentors, and GSBI staff.

Who should Apply

Those who want to create a sustainable, scalable business with a social impact-based mission and are beyond the idea stage. Applicants should already have tested their product or service, have established proof of concept and identified a sustainable business model.

How to Apply

Begin the application process by filling out the application form with details about you and your enterprise.

The 2013 GSBI application form consists of the following core elements:

Leadership team
Overview of the organization
Organization’s vision, goals, impact and market
Budget summary
Challenges & opportunities

Download the application form from this link to prepare your answers. When you are ready, paste your answers into the online application form. Your application will be treated confidentially.

The Application Form helps us better understand your organization’s purpose, history, and future goals; it also provides us with some basic data on your funding sources and cost structure.

Please tell us about the challenges you have been facing as well as your organization’s strengths and the opportunities you see to further develop your good work.

Selection Process

We will select up to 20 applicant organizations to receive a scholarship for participation in the next cohort of GSBI Online.

The upcoming cohort of GSBI Online will start in October 2013 and go through March 2014. It will consist of online, mentored exercises that are designed to create a business plan summary presentation with a credible financing strategy.

We will begin accepting applications April 22, 2013. All interested entrepreneurs should apply by completing the online application form by July 15, 2013.
For More Information:

The Global Social Benefit Incubator Brochure

GSBI Online Application Form

Apply Now for The Global Social Benefit Incubator Program 2013

July 5, 2013 0 comments

Call for Applications Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

The 2013 Peter Drucker Award for Nonprofit Innovation ($100,000 Prize)

by lanredahunsi April 26, 2013

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: July 1 2013

The Peter F. Drucker Award for Nonprofit Innovation is given each fall to a nonprofit organization that best demonstrates Druckerʼs definition of innovation: “change that creates a new dimension of performance.” The award has been given annually since 1991 and is accompanied by a first-place prize of $100,000. The program is generously supported by The Coca-Cola Foundation.

The purpose of the annual Peter F. Drucker Award for Nonprofit Innovation is to find the innovators, whether small or large; to recognize and celebrate their example; and to inspire others.

The Drucker Award application has been designed as a teaching tool, providing those organizations that fill it out with some of Peter Drucker’s key insights on innovation. Last year, 96% of respondents to an Institute survey indicated that the application had, in fact, given them a better understanding of how their program was innovative and 86% were prompted “to explore additional opportunities for innovation.”
The 2012 first-place Drucker Award winner was The American Refugee Committee, a Minneapolis-based nonprofit that has engaged the global Somali community to help shape and lead ARC’s humanitarian response in their native country. The award recognized, in particular, ARC’s I AM A STAR program for leveraging the direct involvement of the Somali diaspora community to improve the lives of 170,000 people on the ground in Somalia by providing them with clean water, sanitation and healthcare.

ARC based its model on a simple premise: A country’s global diaspora is not a lost resource but, rather, the greatest asset available in building a humanitarian response in that country.

Past First-Place Winners

2012 I AM A STAR, American Refugee Committee
2011 Direct Relief International
2010 Safe Families for Children, Lydia Home Association
2009 Center for Court Innovation
2008 KickStart International
2007 Brooklyn Workforce Innovations
2006 United Through Reading
2005 The Landscape Bank, Keep Alachua County Beautiful
2004 Wheel Get There, Minnesota Valley Action Council
2003 River Falls First Responders
2002 Crafts with Conviction, Crayons to Computers
2001 The Eloy Model, Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project
2000 Peer Educator Training Program, SAGE Project
1999 California Transportation Training Institute, California Emergency Foodlink
1998 Times Square Jobs Training Program, Common Ground Community
1997 Computer Clubhouse, The Computer Museum
1996 Second Family Program, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois
1995 ECO-O.K. Banana Project, Rainforest Alliance
1994 Community Schools, Children’s Aid Society
1993 Project Teamwork, Center for Study of Sport in Society
1992 Parish Partnership Transitional Housing Program, Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri
1991 Living in Family Environments, Judson Center

Apply Now for the 2013 Peter Drucker Award for Nonprofit Innovation

For More Information

Drucker Institute Webpage

[email protected]

April 26, 2013 0 comments

Contests Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

ITU Telecom World Young Innovators Competition 2013. (seed funding of up to USD 10,000 per project.)

by lanredahunsi March 28, 2013

written by lanredahunsi

Deadline for applications: June 30th, 2013 at 24:00 GMT+1

The Young Innovators Competition seeks to foster innovative ideas amongst the next generation of social entrepreneurs working to change the world through technology. It is open to any young person between the ages of 18 and 26 with an original solution to one of our six Global Challenges.

The International Telecommunication Union is looking for the next generation of social technopreneurs – young people aged between 18 and 26 with an inspirational ICT-based solution to developmental challenges. Ten winning finalists will be selected to attend ITU Telecom World 2013 in Bangkok, taking part in workshops, pitching sessions, mentoring and networking, plus receiving seed funding of up to USD 10,000 per project.

Your idea could be a start-up already up and running but in need of funding to implement the next stage and bring it to scale. Or it could be a concept worked out on paper but in need of support to make it real.

It doesn’t matter: what we want are innovative solutions which can really make an impact on the world and improve people’s lives by using connected technologies (ICTs) to address one of our Six Grand Challenges:

Improve employment opportunities for young people and migrant workers

Reduce food wastage at individual and retail level

Improve access to ICTs for marginalized groups such as the elderly and women

Improve natural disaster prediction and response

Improve road safety for both drivers and pedestrians

Protect sensitive personal data held by institutions and inspire the creation of local digital content

Benefits

The ten finalists selected by a committee of experts will win:

Up to USD 10,000 in seed money to implement and bring to scale winning start-ups; up to 5,000 USD for winning concepts
An invitation to attend ITU Telecom World 2013 in Bangkok
Mentoring from high-level industry representatives both in Bangkok and for the following year
Hands-on workshop training in entrepreneurial skills
Opportunities to meet and network with leading ICT players
Showcasing platform at our dedicated pavilion on the showfloor

Deadline for applications: June 30th, 2013 at 24:00 GMT+1

How to apply

It’s easy to apply. Just fill in the application form and send it to [email protected] with “2013 Young Innovators Competition” in the subject line. Remember, your submission must address one of our six Global Challenges.

Download the Young Innovators Competition 2013 Application Form

Young Innovator Competition Evaluation Criteria

Young Innovator Competition Terms and Conditions

Young Innovators Competition Frequently Asked Questions

March 28, 2013 0 comments

Grants Social Enterprise

Get Ur Good On Grants($500) for Youth Led-Projects: Global Youth Service Day.

by lanredahunsi February 24, 2013

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: March 10 2013

Get Ur Good On Grants offer young people $500, plus planning advice and project support, to help you create lasting, positive community change on Global Youth Service Day.

Program Requirements:

Youth ages 5-25 worldwide are eligible to apply.
Projects should be youth-led and address a demonstrated community need or issue.
Projects will be held in conjunction with Global Youth Service Day, April 26-28, 2013.

Apply by March 10, 2013. Visit the online application to get started.

Need help finding that perfect idea?

Visit IDEAS for inspiration, and head on over to TOOLS for planning resources and guides.

Get inspired by examples of Get Ur Good On grantees and their projects.

About Get Ur Good On

Started by Miley Cyrus and YSA (Youth Service America) in 2009, Get Ur Good On™ is an online network for young people to support each other in their missions to do “good” in their communities. Through Get Ur Good On Grants, YSA provides funds directly to young people who seek to improve their communities through service.

Get Ur Good On Grants are made possible through the generosity of Starkey Hearing Foundation.

February 24, 2013 0 comments

Call for Applications Call for Proposals Social Enterprise Social Entrepreneurship

Call for Proposals: The 2013 Rising Voices Microgrant Funding Opportunity for Citizen Media Outreach Projects. (USD2,500-4,000)

by lanredahunsi February 18, 2013

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: March 1 2013

Do you have an idea for a project that would help your local community use citizen media to tell their own story? Do you need funding and support in making that idea become a reality?

Rising Voices is pleased to announce the launch of the 2013 Microgrants for Citizen Media Outreach Projects.

Since 2007, Rising Voices has sought to support individuals, grassroots groups, networks, and organizations committed to helping their local communities participate more fully in the digital online space. By providing funding and mentoring to small-scale projects around the world, Rising Voices has supported 35 citizen media outreach projects located in all corners of the globe.

These projects have helped local leaders bring new and underrepresented voices into the global digital conversation in order to tell their own stories or bring to light issues important to their own communities.

Beginning with the 2013 round of microgrant funding, Rising Voices has developed a new platform where applicants can publicly share their ideas with the broader community. This open process can enable greater opportunities to seek feedback and to help facilitate connections between groups located in the same geographic area or working around the same issue. We feel that this new way of sharing ideas will have a positive effect on the global community that shares the common goal of a more inclusive and diverse digital online space.

Once again, we will provide up to five microgrants in the amount of $USD 2,500-4,000 to successful applicants that have demonstrated a strong and clear idea how to best provide training and ongoing support to their local community members. Selected grantee projects will join the Rising Voices community of projects and be featured prominently across the Global Voices network.

GUIDELINES

Rising Voices seeks project proposals that share our mission of bringing voices from new communities, as well as underrepresented language groups to the online global conversation through the use of participatory citizen media. The project’s primary activities should be to provide citizen media training workshops to the target community, as well vital ongoing support and mentoring. Please see our roster of current and alumni grantee projects for examples of previously funded projects.

Examples of potential projects may include:

Organizing a citizen media “boot camp” with experienced local bloggers to train and mentor participants from underrepresented communities that will result in a local network of support.
Working with an indigenous community to teach and encourage new generations to begin to use Twitter to connect with others as a way to preserve and promote their native language online.
Partnering with a local library with a computer lab to invite community members to discuss local problems and solutions, and train them how to create a group blog to take these conversations to the wider community.
Organizing a series of digital photography group walks where residents can document life in their community together and create an online Flickr photography exhibit.
Teaching local residents to record and edit audio recordings on Audacity for a community podcast that can be uploaded online, as well as distributed to local radio stations for a wider reach.

Project ideas are not limited to these, and we encourage you to be creative, yet realistic in your proposals. See the Frequently Asked Questions for additional information.

To apply, please visit the “Submit a Proposal” page, where you will find short questions that will enable you to outline your project plans. Please note that there is a character-limit for each answer (not word-limit).

APPLICATION PROCESS

The competition will follow the following timeline process:

First Round – Applicants submit their initial proposal via the online platform. Once the proposal has been published, we invite applicants to share their proposal with their networks, as a way to solicit comments and input from others. Please note that there is an option for applicants to keep their proposal private if there are security concerns.

All of the proposals will be reviewed by a committee comprised of members from the Global Voices community, including past microgrant recipients.

Application deadline is Friday, March 1, 2013 at 23:59 GMT

Second Round – The selection committee will choose a shortlist of finalists, who will then be invited to submit a longer and more detailed proposal including budget, timeline, and additional detailed information. These finalists will also have the option to submit additional multi-media, such as a user-created video or photographs to help the committee make a final decision.

Winners will be announced by March 31 (subject to change based on the number of proposals to be reviewed).

February 18, 2013 0 comments

Call for Applications Prize Social Enterprise South Africa

The 2013 Anzisha Prize-$75,000 Prize for Young African Entrepreneurs.

by lanredahunsi February 12, 2013

written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: April 1st 2013.

The Anzisha Prize is the premier award for African entrepreneurs aged 15-22 who have developed and implemented innovative businesses or solutions that have a positive impact on their communities.

The Anzisha Prize is an initiative of the African Leadership Academy’s Centre for Entrepreneurial Leadership in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation.

Eligibility:

Applicants must be between the ages of 15 and 22.
Innovations in all fields (science and technology, civil society, arts and culture, sports, etc.) will be considered by the Prize Committee.
Some projects are carried out by small groups or teams that see themselves as equal. Should this be the case with your project, the primary initiator who assembled the project team should apply for the prize on behalf of the group. Should the group be named a finalist, only the primary initiator of the winning group will attend the workshop in South Africa, though winnings may be shared amongst the group.

Prize
Finalists will travel to South Africa for a weeklong entrepreneurial conference and stand to collectively win $75,000 in cash prizes, as well as access to lifelong mentorship that can be provided by Anzisha Prize’s vast network of individual partners, organizations, and youth leaders.

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February 12, 2013 0 comments

Awards Call for Applications Social Enterprise Sub-Saharan Africa

Call for Applications: The 2014 Rolex Awards for Enterprise.

by lanredahunsi January 25, 2013

written by lanredahunsi

The 2014 Rolex Awards for Enterprise seek five Young Laureates with concrete projects to make the world a better place.

The Rolex Awards for Enterprise aim to encourage a spirit of enterprise in individuals around the world by supporting pioneering work in science and health, applied technology, exploration and discovery, the environment, and cultural heritage.

Applications are now open for the 2014 Rolex Awards. Rolex is looking for five visionary young men and women ready to tackle the most pressing issues facing our world.

[vimeo id=”51223888″ width=”400″ height=”300″]

January 25, 2013 0 comments