We are looking for projects that quantifiably improve the lives of substantial numbers of people in underprivileged communities. Projects will be judged on the basis of their practicality, how many people they affect, and the degree to which they affect them.
Projects may leverage technology to achieve their goals, but we understand the value of galvanic leadership, cleverly designed processes, and other ways to improve the lives of others.
Project Qualifications
Your team should have a well-defined budget, as well as a clear 2-3 year plan for how to scale your project and harness other people to achieve your aim. When formulating your idea, consider:
- Which public good are you promoting?
- Does your project serve a particular underserved population?
- Is there a way to serve that population more efficiently?
- Have you tested your idea by interviewing several members of the community you are serving?
Competition Details
We will evaluate each project individually on its merits, and applicants should feel free to structure their projects in the best way they can think of. There are no rules when it comes to innovating to help others.
- Applications are currently closed and will reopen in Fall 2019.
- The Judges Panel will meet in early February to select our finalists by end of the month.
- 20 Finalists will be interviewed by the 8VC team.
- Multiple teams will be awarded $8,000 each.
- A trip to San Francisco to meet mentors and the broader 8VC network.
- Promotion and media highlights for each of the awarded groups.