Paul G. Allen Family Foundation Announces $5M in Funding for Programs Empowering Young People in Washington State

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation announced the Mobilizing Young Leaders Across WA State Request for Proposals to support new and existing youth development programs focused on leadership training, civic engagement, and/or organizing.

Funding will total up to $5M, including individual multi-year grant awards up to $500k. Qualifying organizations are encouraged to submit a Letter of Interest (“LOI”) by November 7, 2024; a subset will be invited to submit a full proposal following LOI review. As noted on the foundation’s RFP web page, programs must serve young people between the ages of 13-18; and focus on developing leadership skills, creating civic engagement, and/or building networks around areas of interest.

The initiative recognizes the importance of youth to our state’s future. More than 22 percent of Washington state’s population is under the age of 19 years and their influence is gaining strength. Analysts predict Gen Z could be the most influential generational cohort in history – and will heavily shape policies around economics, the environment, and society.

“Youth are paying attention to issues that are impacting them, as well as their communities. We need to invest in more opportunities for young people to cultivate their purpose and passions and apply critical thinking as they advocate for lasting change,” said Anh Nguyen, director of arts, youth and community for the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation. “In addition to resources, knowledge, and skills to devise solutions, youth also need to have a seat at the table—not just opportunities to participate and offer perspective, but also chances to be decision-makers.”

A recent article published in Stanford Social Innovation Review noted that “building youth power and the infrastructure that supports it is an investment in a more equitable and just future.” Additionally, “youth organizing has sparked some of the boldest systemic reforms seen in decades, including a campaign to disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline and massive voter registration and education campaigns.”

The RFP prioritizes elements such as demonstrated community need, baseline data from which to measure and analyze program impact, and robust community partnerships.

“Research shows that when youth are activated around their interests and passions, they gain the confidence and tools needed to engage with each other and the world,” said Nguyen. “We’re eager to partner with organizations and young people working to make a difference in our own backyard. Together we will mobilize young leaders to help create a better future for us all.”

An informational webinar will be hosted by the foundation on Thursday, October 10 at 11 a.m. Interested parties must register at this link and are encouraged to submit questions in advance using this form. For more information and details on the Youth RFP, visit our web page.

About the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation

Founded in 1988 by philanthropists Jody Allen and the late Paul G. Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, the foundation works to enhance the arts and culture experience, mobilize young people to drive change, and advance science and technology solutions that address wildlife conservation, ocean health and climate change. The foundation also funds cutting-edge research in all areas of bioscience though the Paul G. Allen Frontiers Group.