 Frequently Asked Questions
About the program
About applying
About selecting
About the program
What is the purpose of the Rhode Island Innovation Fellowship?
The Rhode Island Innovation Fellowship is designed to fuel solutions by Rhode Islanders to Rhode Island challenges. The program, made possible through the generosity of Letitia and John Carter and managed by The Rhode Island Foundation, provides seed funding for ideas to reap community benefit. Rhode Island Innovation Fellows will receive up to $300,000 over up to three years to develop, test, and implement innovative ideas that have the potential to dramatically improve any area of life in Rhode Island. To borrow a description from the MacArthur Fellows Program, the Rhode Island Innovation Fellowship is an investment in an individual’s originality, insight, and potential.
That’s pretty broad. Can you provide examples?
The Fellowship is intentionally broad. We want to generate interest and creative thinking among all Rhode islanders about what can make our state better. Our intention is to give resources to smart people with good ideas.
What do you mean by innovation?
Innovation can be defined in many different ways. We like the definition used by the Young Foundation: “new ideas that work.” We also like what Pam Omidyar, co-founder of the Omidyar Network, had to say: “Innovation is about courageous experimentation – testing new approaches, tapping into unconventional sources for insight and inspiration.”
What if one of the ideas fails?
This Fellowship is built around the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation; therefore, risk-taking is essential. We expect failures, or at least non-conclusive results after three years, for some Fellows.
How will the Foundation know if this program is successful?
The success of this program will be judged over the long term. Our aim is to create a marketplace for Rhode Island solutions. If we give several smart people the freedom to apply creative and fresh thinking to important challenges, we believe placing a few of these “smart bets” will have significant social and community impact.
About applying
Can organizations apply?
While applicants may be affiliated with an organization, the Rhode Island Innovation Fellowship is intended for individuals.
Can groups of individuals apply?
A team of more than one individual may apply. The team will share the award amount (up to $100,000 per year for up to three years).
Can I submit more than one idea?
Yes, you may submit more than one letter of intent.
Can I start a business?
Fellowship ideas must respond to a Rhode Island challenge and have a clear community and social benefit. If you are proposing starting a for-profit venture, we encourage you to be explicit about the social mission of your organization.
What if I live outside Rhode Island?
The Fellowship criteria describe “Rhode Islanders” broadly. You must commit to living in Rhode Island during the three years of the Fellowship. Those who have a deep commitment to Rhode Island will be viewed favorably in the selection process.
How do I apply?
The first step is to submit a short letter of intent online by December 23, 2011. Learn more about the application process.
How much can I ask for?
Fellows will be awarded up to $100,000 annually for up to three years. In other words, you may request as much as $300,000 over three years.
How can the funding be used?
The significant financial support provided by the Fellowship enables Fellows to concentrate time on the idea proposed in the application. Although the Fellowship is unrestricted, Fellows are expected to devote concentrated time to their work during the term of the Fellowship and engage in activities that further the development and implementation of the idea. Examples include piloting the idea in an experimental format, convening outside perspectives to shape the idea and build buy-in, developing a business plan, purchasing equipment or materials, and conducting research.
Fellows will be required to submit a final report documenting activities supported by the Fellowship.
When can I apply for this year’s fellowship?
The application opens on October 25, 2011 and the deadline is 11:59 EST on December 23, 2011. The application will close electronically and no applications will be accepted after the deadline. We encourage you to submit your completed application in advance of the deadline.
Is using the online application the only way to apply for the Fellowship?
Yes. All applications must be submitted through our online system. No paper materials or separate emails will be accepted.
Is the fellowship considered taxable income?
Recent tax laws suggest that fellowships are taxable income. We urge you to consult your tax advisor.
About selecting
How are Fellows selected?
The Rhode Island Foundation has convened a panel of key leaders, thinkers, and doers to select the Rhode Island Innovation Fellows. Depending on the subject matter of specific proposals, the selection panel may choose to consult outside experts as appropriate.
How was the selection panel chosen?
The selection panel was chosen by The Rhode Island Foundation.
How will the selection panel evaluate applications?
The panel will evaluate each candidate and his/her idea on knowledge, enthusiasm, focus, and presentation. Learn more about the selection criteria.
When will decisions be made?
We expect to announce the first two Fellows in April 2012.
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