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 in the United States 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 21 July 2023 (Extended Deadline!)
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?
Applicants will need to complete the application form, including the required documentation, and submit the completed materials before the deadline on June 23, 2023 – July 21, 2023 – 23:59 PST (Extended Deadline!)
Can nonprofits and cities outside the United States apply?
No, the Big Ideas, Bright Cities Challenge is currently open only to 501 (c)(3) nonprofits and their partnering cities, youth organizations, and businesses based in the U.S. but we hope to expand it globally in the upcoming years.
When will the winners be announced?
Finalists for the Big Ideas, Bright Cities challenge will be announced in August, and the winner will be announced in September 2023! October 2023 (Update: We have received more than double the number of applications compared to last year and will delay the announcement of the finalist by a few weeks to ensure each application is given fair and ample consideration by the review committee.)