The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation has launched the Mobilizing Young Leaders Across Washington State initiative, which aims to invest up to $5 million in programs that promote youth leadership, civic engagement, and youth organizing across Washington state. This Request for Proposals (RFP) invites both new and existing programs to apply for grants supporting initiatives that empower youth aged 13-18 to take active roles in their communities. The foundation seeks to nurture young leaders by providing them with opportunities to develop their voices, advocate for change, and contribute meaningfully to society.

Programs eligible for funding must focus on at least one of the following objectives: advancing youth engagement through leadership training, increasing civic participation, or fostering youth organizing efforts. Leadership training is expected to help young people develop problem-solving skills, decision-making abilities, and community awareness, while civic engagement involves youth participation in community events and advocacy efforts. Youth organizing emphasizes collective action, empowering young people to take on decision-making roles and build alliances within their communities. The foundation encourages proposals that amplify youth voices, particularly those that are youth-led or involve intergenerational collaboration.

Eligible applicants include U.S. registered 501(c)(3) organizations or those with fiscal sponsorship from such an entity. The programs must be focused on Washington state, although organizations based outside the state may apply if their projects serve communities within Washington. Proposals should demonstrate how the initiative will generate measurable impact and include a plan for tracking and learning from these outcomes. Programs are encouraged to serve historically underrepresented youth, including LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and Indigenous populations, and to reach geographically underserved areas, particularly outside of Seattle and the Greater Puget Sound region.

The foundation is particularly interested in programs that incorporate arts and culture or environmental science and conservation as key elements. Proposals should also emphasize local leadership, community-based knowledge, and partnerships that enhance youth engagement and organizational impact. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their programs will be sustainable in the long term, both financially and in terms of community support.

Applicants must first submit a Letter of Intent (LOI), due by November 7, 2024. Successful LOIs will lead to an invitation to submit a full proposal, with final funding decisions expected in Q2 2025. Grants of up to $500,000 will be awarded, with a maximum term of three years. Indirect costs are allowed but capped at 10% of the total project budget. Funding cannot be used for activities outside Washington state, capital campaigns, lobbying, or individual grants.

Key dates include an informational webinar on October 10, 2024, and a deadline for applicant questions on October 8, 2024. Full proposals will be evaluated by external experts, and successful applicants will be notified in 2025.