emP.O.W.E.R.ing Innovation Fund

Fact Forward's initiative to invest in organizations and businesses ready to move an idea forward. emP.O.W.E.R.ing Innovation is an arm of emP.O.W.E.R.ed SC: Creating linkages for youth of color in South Carolina.

P.O.W.E.R. Acronym: Partners Optimizing Wellness & Education through Referrals

Purpose

Support youth of color ages 15-19 in achieving optimal health and increase their use of sexual health services in Orangeburg and Richland Counties.

Focus: Organizations and businesses are encouraged to think beyond traditional ways of supporting, informing, and engaging young people and tap into their creative side.

Award Amount

$5,000 - $20,000 for:

• Generation Track: Develop new ideas
• Cultivation Track: Test ideas already imagined

Geographic Scope

• Orangeburg County, SC
• Richland County, SC

Contact

Address: 4702 Colonial Drive, Columbia, SC 29203

Office Hours (for questions)

• December 2: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• December 7: 2 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

(Send email with "Innovation Fund" as subject to schedule 30-minute meeting via Zoom)

Track 1: Generation

For applicants developing new ideas

Requirements:

1. Commitment to participating in customized Design-Thinking process developed by Fact Forward
2. Attendance at (4) quarterly day-long learning collaboratives
3. Agreement to collect and submit data
4. Completion of online application

Selection Process: Applications submitted for cycles (specific timeline noted that applications for current cycle have already been submitted)

Track 2: Cultivation

For applicants with existing ideas

Requirements:

1. Must already have an idea that can potentially lead to increased use of sexual health services by youth of color
2. Availability to meet with Technical Assistant Provider monthly
3. Submit budget and budget narrative
4. Agreement to collect and submit data
5. Completion of online application

Selection Process: Rolling basis submissions accepted

How to Apply

1. Complete online application at application portal (linked as "Apply Now" on website)
2. Submit required documentation
3. Optionally schedule office hours consultation (email ymaldonado@factforward.org with preferred date/time)

Application Materials:

• Online application form
• Budget and budget narrative (Cultivation track)
• Data collection agreements