What is the Big ideas, Bright Cities Challenge?
The Big Ideas, Bright Cities Challenge is a call to action for city leaders, youth-serving organizations, higher education institutions, and businesses to come together to develop bold, innovative ideas that equip young people with the skills they need for tomorrow’s workforce.
The Big Ideas, Bright Cities Challenge is based on the 10 Standards for Skills Friendly Cities developed with experts in education, workforce development, and economic development. We invite 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organizations to apply in partnership with any city or metro area, including county seats (large and small), businesses, and higher education institutions by 23 June, 2023.
Fifteen (15) partnerships with the highest-impact ideas to make their communities more “skills friendly” and support youth skills development will be awarded grants of up to U.S. $100.000, in-kind business support to grow their projects and join tour prestigious Skills Friendly Cities Community Incubator Program to learn from experts and peers.
What are the awards?
Fifteen (15) winners with the most impactful ideas to make their cities and communities more “skills friendly” and support youth skills development will be awarded grants of up to 100.000 USD, in-kind business support to grow their projects and join the renowned Skills Friendly Cities Community Incubator Program to learn from experts in youth development and education, business leaders and peers from like-minded organizations.
What are the Ten Standards for a Skills Friendly City?
You can learn more about the Ten Standards for Skills Friendly Cities and the research behind the standards here.
How do I apply to the challenge?
Applications will open in May 2023. Applicants will need to complete the application form, including the required documentation, and submit the completed materials before the deadline on June 23, 2023 – 23:59 PST
Who are the Judges?
The winners will be selected by a panel of judges that includes business representatives from the Global Business Coalitionfor Education, non-profits, youth leaders, and experts in education and workforce development. The judges will be announced in June 2023.
When will the winners be announced?
Finalists for the Big Ideas, Bright Cities challenge will be announced in Early August, and the winner will be announced in September 2023!