NBCU To Offer Social Innovation Grants

The NBCUniversal Foundation today announced the launch of its annual grant program, 21st Century Solutions, in partnership with the NBC Owned Television Stations. This program once again will award 30 grants totaling $1.2 million to local nonprofit organizations in 10 markets, giving the organizations an opportunity to compete for recognition for their innovative, community-based programs in civic engagement, education, environment, jobs and economic empowerment, media arts and technology.

Grant submissions will be accepted starting today through July 31 in the 10 markets served by the NBC-owned stations: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Francisco Bay Area, Washington, Miami-Fort Lauderdale, San Diego and Connecticut.

“Innovation is the key to making a sustainable difference in our cities in the 21st century,” said Beth Colleton, NBCU SVP of corporate social responsibility. “We are excited to build on last year’s successful program to highlight new, bold initiatives driving forward ideas that combat the issues facing our communities and make them stronger.”

21st Century Solutions supports initiatives designed to address emerging and ongoing community challenges in new and creative ways. By focusing on social innovation, the program hopes to encourage nonprofit organizations that address these pressing matters with fresh perspectives.

“Our stations are proud to partner with some of the most innovative non-profit organizations in the communities we serve,” said Valari Staab, president of the NBC Owned Television Stations. “21st Century Solutions enables us to help create positive change in the places where we live and serve.”

Interested 501(c)(3) organizations wishing to compete in the grant challenge can review the eligibility criteria and complete applications on the NBC stations’ websites in the 10 markets. One winning organization and two runners-up will be awarded grants in each city. The recipients will be announced by the end of 2013. The 21st Century Solutions program is funded by the NBCUniversal Foundation with promotional support from the 10 NBC Owned Stations.

To watch an interview with some of last year’s grant recipients about the programs that were funded through 21st Century Solutions, please click here.