emP.O.W.E.R.ing Innovation Fund

Fact Forward is looking to invest in organizations and businesses that are ready to move an idea forward. emP.O.W.E.R.ing Innovation is an arm of emP.O.W.E.R.ed SC: Creating linkages for youth of color in South Carolina. P.O.W.E.R. is an acronym for partners optimizing health and wellness through referrals. This initiative was developed by Fact Forward and aims to support youth of color ages 15 to 19 in achieving optimal health and increase their use of sexual health services in Orangeburg and Richland Counties. To learn more, visit www.youtube.com/FactForward to watch the kick-off meeting for your county.  

Potential applicants are encouraged to think beyond traditional ways of supporting, informing, and engaging young people and tap into their creative side.  

Award range is $5,000-$20,000 and can be used to develop new ideas (Generation) or test one already imagined (Cultivation).

Track 1: Generation
  • Applicant must be committed to participating in a customized Design-Thinking process developed by Fact Forward. 
  • Application must attend (4) quarterly day long learning collaboratives.
  • Applicant must agree to collect and submit data.
  • Applicant must complete the online application.

Selection Process and Timeline 

  • Applications have already been submitted for this cycle.
Track 2: Cultivation 
  • Applicant must already have an idea that can potentially lead to the increased use of sexual health services by youth of color. 
  • Applicant must be available to meet with a Technical Assistant Provider monthly. 
  • Applicant must submit a budget and budget narrative. 
  • Applicant must agree to collect and submit data.
  • Applicant must complete the online application here

Selection Process and Timeline

  • Fact Forward will be soliciting application on a rolling basis. 

Apply Now

Office Hours: 

December 2, 2020 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. & December 7, 2020 2 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. 

Fact Forward staff will be available to answer questions about the application process. Send an email with Innovation Fund as the subject to ymaldonado@factforward.org along with your preferred date and time. You will receive a confirmation email along with a Zoom link. You can schedule (1) 30 minute meeting with project staff.