The UpPrize Social Innovation Challenge, powered by Innovation Works and funded by the BNY Mellon Foundation of Southwestern Pennsylvania, fosters partnerships across sectors to address our community's most critical issues. This competition aims to nurture ideas and solutions, helping social entrepreneurs reach their full potential.
This year's challenge calls on social entrepreneurs to compete for significant non-dilutive funding and business support. Finalists stand to win $300,000 in prize monies and receive accelerator assistance to launch or expand startups using technology to address social inequities.
Three finalists will receive a total prize pool of $300,000, with awards distributed as follows:
- First Place: $125,000
- Second Place: $100,000
- Third Place: $75,000
Additionally, finalists will join the inaugural UpPrize Masterclass cohort, tailored to focus on customer discovery, beginning in January 2025. They will also enjoy access to Innovation Works' networking events and ongoing support.
