A program of the Salazar Center Conservation
Impact Prize at Colorado State University
Why the Thriving Cities Challenge?
Our cities are facing the effects of climate change and confronting policies that often leave communities of color more vulnerable to the heat, rising seas, and extreme weather climate change brings. But there is hope: nature-based solutions can not only make communities more resilient to these changes, they can offer myriad additional benefits and improve the collective health of our cities and their residents.
What we’re looking for
Place-based, Community led
There is no perfect solution for every city in North America to adapt to the challenges posed by climate change, or for every city to tackle these challenges equitably and inclusively. We believe that the way a city approaches these challenges is unique to its community members, its leaders, and its geography, and that those most affected must lead the charge for change. Accordingly, we welcome proposals that envision transformational change unique to the place and the people that a project is intended to serve, and encourage ideas that may have broader application or relevance for other communities.
Innovative
We know we can improve the equity, health, and resilience of our communities through nature-based solutions. While some ideas may focus on urban tree canopy, stormwater quality, or access to rivers, not all solutions will converge around infrastructure. We encourage teams to use this prize to explore out-of-the-box solutions. Other examples might include new ways to gather or apply data, finance projects, engage residents, or form partnerships. Projects should aim to remove key barriers to health and equity in urban areas, support racial equity, and prevent or mitigate the destructive impacts of climate change.
Building Capacity
A committed group of people is the first step to making change, but success in any field likely also requires skills and experience. Show us how the prize will help your team build needed capacity, spur organizational change, or deepen its commitment to equity-focused resilience and green space in your community.
Scaling Impact
Is there a kernel of an idea or a small pilot project that has the potential for much bigger impact? We invite project teams to show how this prize money will allow them to translate or scale an initial small win into a much larger or longer-lasting change.
Timeline:
2021
The Challenge takes place over several months and includes an initial application, scoring by a panel of experienced evaluators, capacity-building and support for a small group of finalists, and a final pitch event to select the winning team.
Thriving Cities Challenge Official Launch
Website is live and open for applications.
Applicant Webinar
Optional webinar to learn more about the Challenge, see a demonstration of the application portal, and ask questions. Watch the recording or check out the Q&A.
Applicant Webinar
Optional webinar to learn more about the challenge, see a demonstration of the application portal, and ask questions. Webinar will also be recorded and shared on the website. Watch the recording or check out the Q&A.
Applications Due
All applications due by 5pm Mountain Time.
Evaluation Period
All applications go through an internal administrative review (for eligibility) then review by evaluators. Evaluator scoring and feedback will be made available to all applicants after finalists have been notified.
Finalists Notified
Finalists are notified and all applicants are provided a status update.
Capacity Building & Idea Support for Finalists
Finalists are provided support to continue to strengthen and further develop their projects in advance of the final pitch. May include additional funding, training, and mentoring.
Final Pitch Event
Final pitch event to be held in-person in Denver, Colorado, or virtually as needed for health and safety of all participants. Finalists will present their ideas and a small panel of reviewers will select a winner. Watch the Finalist Pitch Fest on September 30 via Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/99080169270