The Trust in American Institutions Challenge, launched by Lever for Change and Reid Hoffman on December 12, 2024, is a $10 million initiative aimed at scaling a transformative solution to rebuild public trust in key institutions within the United States. This initiative arises in response to a significant decline in public trust across various sectors, including schools, government, media, and healthcare systems, since 2015. Such declines exacerbate polarization and reduce the resources allocated to these essential institutions, threatening social cohesion and the democratic framework. The challenge seeks to reverse these trends by identifying innovative and impactful solutions to renew and enhance trust nationwide over the next five years.

This challenge focuses on bold, scalable, and durable projects that address critical leverage points in building or restoring public trust. Eligible applicants include organizations across the United States, including partnerships and collaborative entities. Proposals should demonstrate transformative potential, emphasizing solutions that are both impactful and sustainable in rebuilding trust in the core societal institutions that underpin community health and democratic governance.

Funding includes a $9 million award to a single finalist to scale their proposed solution. The process begins with an initial application, which undergoes administrative and participatory review by other applicants. In the Fall of 2025, up to five finalists will receive initial project development grants and technical assistance to refine their proposals. After resubmission, one of these finalists will be selected to receive the primary award, with the winner announced in Spring 2026.

Applications require registration by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on February 19, 2025. Following registration, applicants must submit their proposals by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on March 19, 2025. Interested parties are encouraged to utilize the Organizational Readiness Tool available on the challenge website to assess their eligibility and readiness to apply. Additional information on eligibility requirements is accessible through the application portal at trust.leverforchange.org.

Key evaluation criteria include the boldness, scalability, and sustainability of the proposed solutions. Applicants are also evaluated based on their ability to address and reverse trust deficits effectively within a specified timeline. Participation in the process involves peer review among applicants, fostering collaboration and shared insights during the selection phases.

This opportunity is particularly suitable for organizations with innovative approaches to strengthening public trust and fostering cohesion within diverse communities. The challenge aims to not only address immediate issues but also to lay the groundwork for enduring trust in American institutions, creating a lasting impact on society.