CTIA Wireless Foundation is promoting social progress driven by innovative wireless technology with the Funding Wireless Innovation to Enhance American Communities program.
Six for-profit or nonprofit social entrepreneurs in the United States or its territories will receive unrestricted grant funding, as well as non-financial awards. Applications for Phase 1 are due by March 5, 2024 11:59 PM ET. Invitations will be issued post-review to proceed to Phases 2 and 3.
Eligibility
Applicant
This funding opportunity is open to social entrepreneurs registered in the United States or its territories. Applicants may be registered as a:
- Nonprofit organization
- For-profit business
- B Corporation
All award recipients will be expected to attend some in-person events.
Project
Submitted projects should be mobile-first solutions to challenges faced by American communities, especially marginalized communities. The product should run on 5G and cutting edge wireless technology and already have a proof of concept.
Awards
Financial Awards
- 1st Place – $100,000
- 2nd Place – $50,000
- 3rd Place – $25,000
- 3 Honorable Mentions – $10,000 each
Non-Financial Awards
The 3 winners will all receive:
- A 2 minute, professionally produced video about their social enterprise
- Opportunities to speak to and share their work with wireless industry leaders, policymakers, and elected officials
The winners and honorable mentions will receive:
- A profile on the CTIA Wireless Foundation website
- Features in CTIA Member newsletters and social media profiles
- Financial assistance to attend Catalyst events
- Pitch coaching
- Networking with CTIA Wireless Foundation board members
- The opportunity to join the Catalyst alumni network