Type:
Judges
Start date:
Friday, July 15, 2011 05:30 AM PDT
End date:
Monday, December 12, 2011 09:00 AM PST
Enrollment is open until Thursday, October 20, 2011 04:00 PM PDT
Judging criteria
Innovation
This idea is truly new/different, as evidenced by:
• Clear articulation of the problem the innovation solves, new/refined insights into the root causes of that problem, and a linear connection between the proposed solution and the problem
• An argument that the solution is different from those already in existence (through a new market, a new product, a new model, a new approach)
• Proof of demand or potential demand after thorough research of the market for this idea
Transformative Impact & Sustainability
The idea has the potential to dramatically impact educational outcomes for low-income students, as evidenced by:
• The degree to which the idea addresses the expansion of opportunities in low-income communities and shows promise to create a transformational impact as opposed to incremental changes OR to serve a niche, underserved market in a scalable manner
• Clear definition of success and conceptually how it will be measured, in the short-term and long-term
• Potential for the idea to scale and spread and/or significantly alter the status quo in the field if it works
Leadership
This individual is the best person to launch and lead the venture, as evidenced by:
• Deep passion, inspiration or experience for/with innovation, including but not limited to experience launching other new ventures or launching programs/initiatives within an existing venture
• A clear vision and articulated pathway for how they will meet the goals of the venture
• Demonstrated ability to mobilize resources in support of this idea, including but not limited to, securing early funding, advisors, partners, etc.
Stage of Idea Development
The award is critical to the successful launch or scaling of the venture, as evidenced by:
• A clear articulation of how the award will be transformative for the venture (rather than just a welcome bonus)
Requirements:
The application consists of four parts: a resume, a narrative response to application form questions, supplemental information sheet and a video pitch. All components must be submitted through the online platform by 5pm PDT on October 15 2011 to be considered for the Innovation Award.
Use the application and support materials available on the Home Page to compile and submit your Award application.
Rules:
This award is for new or emerging entrepreneurs within the Teach For America community. You must be a current corps member or an alumnus. Teach For America staff and members of the general public are not eligible to apply unless they meet this previous criterion. For ideas/ventures that include non-corps members or alumni members, the idea originator and founder/director of the venture must be a Teach For America corps member or alumnus. This award is intended for people who would not be able to launch their idea without it.
An unlimited number of applicants will be allowed to submit an application for this award. Following the Round 1 selection process, feedback and scoring will be available through the onlilne platform for all applicants.
Type:
Judges
Start date:
Monday, December 12, 2011 09:00 AM PST
End date:
Thursday, January 26, 2012 09:00 AM PST
Requirements:
Semi-finalists are interviewed to confirm finalists. Interviews will be conducted in person (if based in NYC Area) or via phone. Details of this round will be sent to semi-finalists once their place in this round is confirmed.
Rules:
Only those applicants selected to advance from Round 1 will be eligible to participate in Round 2. Feedback and scoring will be provided for all Round 2 applicants through the online platform.
Type:
Judges
Start date:
Thursday, January 26, 2012 09:00 AM PST
End date:
Saturday, March 10, 2012 06:00 AM PST
Requirements:
Finalists are reviewed by a panel of judges to confirm winner(s). Details of this round will be sent to finalists once their place in this round is confirmed.
Rules:
Only applicants shortlisted by the judges in Round 2 will be eligible to participate in Round 3. Feedback and scoring will be available for all Round 3 applicants through the online platform.