Zen Coast Cares Grant Program Overview

 

Zen Coast Cares aims to empower young minds to think critically about financial literacy, investment, and entrepreneurship. Participants will pitch their ideas to a panel of judges on how they would utilize grant money to make impactful investments. This could range from starting a small business, investing in stocks or real estate, or any other creative investment idea that aligns with their values and goals.

Eligibility :

  • Open to individuals or teams (up to 3 members) aged 10-18
  • Completion of Zen Coast Cares Financial Literacy Course
  • Consent from a parent or guardian is required to participate.
    **    Peralta Community College District's international students over the age of 18 can apply.

Application Process :

  1. **Registration:**
    Participants must register online by June 1st. 
  2. **Proposal Submission:**
    Participants must submit a written proposal (500-800 words) detailing:
    • The investment idea.
    • The amount of grant money requested (maximum of $5k).
    • How they plan to use the funds.
    • Expected outcomes or impacts of their investment.
    • A brief plan for measuring success.

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Selection Criteria

The judges will evaluate submissions based on the following:

  • **Creativity and Innovation**
    • How unique and original is the investment idea?
  •  **Feasibility**
    • Is the plan realistic given the grant amount and the participant's age and resources?
  • **Impact**
    • What potential positive impact will the investment have on the community, environment, or economy?
  • **Financial Literacy**
    • Understanding of basic financial concepts, such as budgeting, risk management, and returns on investment.
  • **Presentation Skills**
    • Clarity, confidence, and persuasiveness in pitching the idea.

Pitch Day

  • Shortlisted participants will be invited to pitch their ideas to the board in a live or virtual setting.
  • Each pitch will be 10-20 minutes long, followed by a 5-minute Q&A with the judges.
  • Participants can use slides, props, or other visual aids to enhance their presentation.

Awards and Prizes

  • Grants will be awarded to the winning pitch(es)
  • Special awards for categories such as "Most Innovative," "Best Community Impact," and "Best Financial Plan".
  • All participants will receive feedback from the judges and a certificate of participation.

Post-Competition Requirements

  • Winners must provide a progress update within [6 months or another specified time frame] on how the grant money was used.
  • A final report or presentation on the outcomes of their investment after [one year or another specified time frame].

Important Dates

  • **Registration Deadline**
    • 1st of June
  • **Proposal Submission Deadline:**
    • 1st of September
  • **Pitch Day:**
    • October 
  • **Winners Announcement:**
    • Zen Coast Cares Charity Gala (November or December) 

Terms and Conditions

  • The decision of the judges is final.
  • Grant money must be used solely for the purposes outlined in the pitch.
  • Any changes to the investment plan after winning must be approved by the board.


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