Zen Coast Cares Grant Program Overview
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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.
Application Process :
- **Registration:**
Participants must register online by June 1st. - **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.
Selection Criteria
The judges will evaluate submissions based on the following:
- **Creativity and Innovation**
- How unique and original is the investment idea?
- Â **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:**
- OctoberÂ
- **Winners Announcement:**
- Zen Coast Cares Charity Gala (November or December)Â
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.