Deadline to apply at www.emergingcitychampions.org is July 12, 2020 @ 8:59 PM (PST)
[Pictured: Emerging City Champions 2019-2020 Cohort]
How would you transform San José?
“Emerging City Champions is a fellowship and micro-grant program for young civic innovators with bold ideas to enhance public space, mobility, and civic engagement. This program is powered by 8 80 Cities and John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.”
How it works
This fellowship is elevating new voices in city building and supporting bold projects that strengthen communities. We are looking for future city leaders with creative solutions that:
Activate public life in public spaces
Enhance mobility options
Build a culture of civic engagement
"Public space, mobility, and civic engagement have always been central to Emerging City Champions. With the pandemic and nation-wide protests highlighting deep inequities in our systems, it’s clear that we need to invest in diverse young leaders to create more resilient, inclusive, and equitable communities for our collective future."
Who can apply?
The fellowship is open to U.S. residents aged 19-35 with an innovative project idea and the drive to see it through in one of Knight Foundation's investment communities. Applicants may be activists, educators, tactical urbanists, designers, artists, entrepreneurs, and more. We want diverse voices with fresh perspectives, talent, and commitment to building vibrant neighborhoods and cities.
Champions will receive $5,000 in seed funding to implement one community project in one year. We are looking for projects that respond to community needs, build on local assets, and are implemented through collaboration. Projects must address public space, mobility, and/or civic engagement challenges in the community, and must be based in one of the 26 cities where Knight Foundation invests.
A Three-Day Experiential Studio
A major part of the program is the Emerging City Champions Studio in Toronto, Canada. The three-day Studio equips participants with leadership training and practical tools to implement their community project. Champions participate in site tours, workshops, networking events, and engaging presentations by city building experts. Flights, meals, and accommodation are covered by the program.
The ECC Network
Champions join a supportive and inspiring network of their peers from across the country. Participants receive ongoing mentorship from experts in diverse fields such as planning, design, communications, and more. 8 80 Cities and Knight Foundation will expose participants to opportunities for additional funding, professional growth, and support.
* Originally published at www.emergingcitychampions.org (visit link to learn more and apply).