social innovator track
summary
The Social Innovator Track supports youth founders who are solving critical social issues through nonprofit, mission-driven, or hybrid models. This track empowers changemakers with bold ideas that drive societal impact and systemic change.
Choose between:
Ideation Track: For early-stage ideas tackling social problems through innovation.
• Growth Track: For initiatives with traction ready to expand impact and reach.
Teams must consist of 1–5 participants.
All participants must be under 19 years old as of August 31, 2025.
U.S. residency is required.
Each student may only participate on one team per year.
All ideas must be original, not previously commercialized, and plagiarism-free.
Submissions must be presented in English and comply with relevant laws.
AI is permitted for brainstorming and development.
Preliminary rounds take place via Zoom; the Finals are in person.
• Final submissions must include a video (5–15 minutes) and no more than 20 slides.
All projects must address an unmet social need and demonstrate a clear path to impact.
Submission phases: Initial Pitch → Prototype → Final Presentation.
Finalists must submit complete materials by the deadline.
• YPC Labs reserves the right to disqualify inappropriate or ineligible submissions.
Impact: What is the scale and depth of the social issue addressed?
Market Viability: Is there demand or support for this type of solution?
Financial Planning: Does the team show understanding of funding, costs, and sustainability?
Logistical Feasibility: Can the idea be realistically implemented and scaled?
Presentation Quality: Is the pitch polished, persuasive, and clear?
Significance: Is the problem substantial and widely relevant?
Innovation & Creativity: Does the approach bring something new or transformative?
Evidence-Based: Is there supporting research or data behind the solution?
• Motive: Does the team demonstrate a personal connection or compelling reason to pursue this as a nonprofit?
Applications Close: July 25, 2025
Quarterfinals (50 teams): July 30, 2025
Semifinals (25 teams): August 5, 2025
Finals (13 teams): August 15, 2025 (in-person in San Diego)
Participants receive access to workshops on nonprofit formation, impact storytelling, grant writing, stakeholder mapping, and social venture scaling. Finalists may also be connected with local foundations and university-based social innovation centers.
Prize details:
Ideation Track Winner: $7,000
Growth Track Winner: $7,000
People’s Choice Awards:
1st Place: $10,000
2nd Place: $4,000
• 3rd Place: $2,000