Accelerating Impact Challenge
The Resolution Project is providing an opportunity for all Fellows working on scaling social ventures to participate in an accelerated incubator and pitch competition with the aim of securing additional venture funding!
The Accelerating Impact Challenge (AIC) is an exciting program, with tailored educational resources and access to exceptional subject matter experts, culminating in a pitch challenge for follow-on funding. AIC is open to Resolution Fellows working on a scaling social enterprise that supports beneficiaries (see eligibility guidelines for full criteria).
Successful applicants will be given access to a combination of virtual programming and in-person networking events, showcase, and pitch competition. AIC is set to begin with the virtual programming and will end with a formal showcase and pitch competition to leading social sector investors and grantmakers in New York City. (Participation in AIC is free. Airfare, accommodation, visas, majority of meals, and ground transportation to and from the venue will all be covered either in advance or through reimbursements.)
Ventures that are ultimately selected for funding can expect awards ranging from $5,000-$50,000. Resolution is a convener of AIC, but is not a funder. Funding is not guaranteed. All terms will be finalized directly between participants and the funder.
Review the eligibility criteria, application process, and selection process here.
Virtual Activities (August and September)
Participants will take part in a short, interactive workshop where they will learn from experts and work on take-away assignments that will help them prepare for the in-person meeting and pitches with funders. Activities offered (and participation required) include:
Workshops
- Pitching 201 – Best practices and tips for pitching – this is designed for participants who have some experience with fundraising pitches already.
- Marketing and Communications – Assessing target market(s), how to meet their needs with products and/or services and how to market the company, products and services effectively.
- Impact Evaluation / Metrics, Evaluation, and Learning – Understanding how to assess what changes can be attributed to a specific project or program. IE should compare actual changes with expected changes (goals), compare achievements to a previous period of time, and/or measure against the achievements of a similar project or program.
- Budgeting / Finance – Best practices for creating and sharing your financial plan; providing the framework for funders to understand the resources you will need to sustain your venture; a summary of a company’s expenses and earnings in the form of a spreadsheet that can be used to calculate the impact of a future event or decision; and a structure for sharing the revenue and expenses over a specified future period of time.
Virtual Open Office Hours
Open Office Hours are an accessible online version of the traditional college-style office hour, in which Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) hold a 30- to 60-minute informal discussion on a topic within their expertise and take questions regarding that topic. Open Office Hours will be placed throughout the workshop schedule so that participants will have the opportunity to share and get input on their take-away assignments (as well as any other items they want expert guidance on).
Community Building Activities
Participants will join facilitated peer discussions every other week where they can openly share their wins, challenges, and overall experience with their venture and professional development. This shared space is meant to build a supportive community between participants, along with creating meaningful and lasting connections.
In-Person Activities (October - New York City)
Participants will then take part in the following:
- Networking Event for Participants
- Networking Event with Funders
- Bilateral Meetings with Funders
- Pitch Presentation
- Funding Announcement
For more information on the program, eligibility, and/or funding partners contact aic@resolutionproject.org.
