2017 Fuller Challenge

Posted by Buckminster Fuller Institute on January 23, 2017

Buckminster Fuller Institute Issues RFP for Fuller Challenge

The Buckminster Fuller Institute has announced a Request for Proposals for the 2017 Fuller Challenge.

Through the annual program, the institute invites activists, architects, artists, designers, entrepreneurs, scientists, students, and planners from all over the world to submit innovative solutions to some of humanity’s most pressing problems.

BFI looks for holistic strategies that demonstrate a clear grasp of big-picture dynamics. If a proposal emphasizes a new design, material, process, service, tool or technology, it is essential that it be part of an integrated strategy that simultaneously addresses key social, environmental, and economic factors. The institute seeks initiatives that tackle urgent needs at a range of scales: from macro-strategies that have the potential for widespread impact to local community-based initiatives with global relevance and replicability. Proposals at any stage of development will be reviewed; nonprofit, for-profit, and hybrid initiatives are all eligible.

A $100,000 prize will be awarded to support the development and implementation of an outstanding strategy. In addition, BFI seeks to leverage further resources for finalists, semi-finalists, and select entrants through its network and Catalyst Program.

To be eligible, entries must put forth an original idea or synthesize existing ideas into a new strategy that creatively addresses a critical need; apply a whole-systems approach to the design and implementation process; aim to address multiple goals, requirements, and conditions in a holistic way; factor in critical future trends and needs as well as the projected impacts of project implementation in the short and long term; practice environmental responsibility; enhance the ability of natural systems to regenerate; demonstrate the solution is possible; be able to withstand empirical testing and make authentic claims; and be able to be adapted to similar conditions elsewhere.

There is a $50 application fee for nonprofit organizations and a $100 fee for individuals.

See the BFI website for complete program guidelines, information about previous winners, and application instructions.

DEADLINE: MARCH 31, 2017

http://www.bfi.org/static/email/challenge/2017_Cycle_Dates_Announcement.html