Deadline: April 2, 2018

Applications are now open for D-Prize Global Competition for aspiring entrepreneurs around the world. D-Prize funds new entrepreneurs who increase access to proven poverty interventions. Are you ready to launch a pilot social venture that will impact thousands, even millions, of lives? Apply and make your mark in global health, governance and infrastructure, clean energy, or education.

D-Prize Challenges

The world has already invented ways to end poverty, yet the best interventions are not being distributed at mass-scale. Can you design a business or NGO that solves one of the Distribution Challenges below?

• + GIRL’S EDUCATION
• + AGRICULTURE
• + ENERGY
• + GLOBAL HEALTH
• + EDUCATION
• + GOVERNANCE AND INFRASTRUCTURE
• + CUSTOM

If selected we will award you up to $20,000 to launch a pilot in any region where extreme poverty exists.

Eligibility

• D-Prize is for aspiring entrepreneurs from anywhere in the world, of any age, and any background.
• They will consider funding existing organizations only if: you are piloting a new distribution-focused initiative, and you need high risk capital.
• D-Prize is also open to any business model (for profit, non-profit, and everything in between)
• Up to 25 of the most promising proposals will be selected for funding awards, regardless of which challenge track was selected.

Requirements

• Proposals must be submitted following the instructions in this packet.
• Extra material outside of the proposal will not be considered.
• Revisions to proposals after submission will also not be considered.
• Only one proposal per person or partnership will be considered.
• Proposals must be written in English.

Judging Criteria

The D-Prize judging panel is composed of individuals with professional experience distributing life-changing technologies in the developing world. Contestants are evaluated based on:

• Passion and potential for candidate’s success, as evident by their academic and professional background, relevant skills, and quick leadership trajectory.
• Focus on distribution. Proposals must focus on distributing a proven poverty solution that needs greater access in the developing world.
• Potential for scale, based on the organizational model proposed in the concept note and the entrepreneur’s desire to commit and grow.

Timeline

• ROUND 1: Submit your concept note and resume(s).
  • April 2 – Early deadline
  • April 23 – Regular deadline
  • May 14 – Extension deadline (sign up required)
• ROUND 2: Top 5% of entrepreneurs are invited to submit a full 10 page proposal. You will have  four weeks to submit.
• FINAL ROUND: Top entrepreneurs interview.  Winners will receive up to $20,000 to launch. Final decisions expected by December.
• Spend the next three months using your talent to start a venture and  help millions of people.

Application

Download An Application Packet

For more information, visit D-Prize.