Special Features

From office hours with funders to in-depth sessions on strategy, Fueling the Mission helps changemakers navigate the funding landscape and build high-impact programs. Hear directly from decision-makers about what it takes to get funded and why some proposals succeed while others fall short.

Audience:
Higher education leaders, K–12 educators, nonprofit organizations, program developers, and institutional grant writers.

Details:
This multi-part feature includes the following sessions:

• Meet the Funders Office Hours (Preregistration required – coming soon)

• Panel + Workshop Sessions

  • Demystifying the Grant Process (Higher Ed focus)

  • Building Programs That Create Real-World Economic Impact (Higher Ed focus)

  • Finding the Right Funder for Your Program (K–12 focus)

  • Creating Meaningful Learning Experiences Inside and Outside the Classroom (K–12 focus)

This feature highlights exceptional high school students engaged in innovative projects and community-impact initiatives.

Opportunities for Students:

• Present their work to a global audience, showcasing creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills.

• Connect with peers, mentors, and industry leaders.

• Gain recognition for their contributions to societal challenges through technology and innovation.

• Participate in interactive panels and receive real-time feedback from experts.

Apply to Student Spotlight

This feature celebrates college students who are redefining AI and tech innovation.

Opportunities for Students:

• Showcase groundbreaking AI or technology-based projects.

• Network with funders, employers, and industry mentors to elevate their initiatives.

• Participate in focused roundtable discussions designed to refine their ideas and foster collaboration.

Apply to Higher Ed Student Spotlight

Join us in honoring outstanding individuals who drive impact and innovation globally and locally through the TGIF Awards. These awards celebrate visionary leaders who have made significant contributions to economic development, social mobility, and positive societal change through education and innovation.

2025 TGIF Awards

• TGIF 10: Leaders of Impact: Recognizing 10 leaders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to fostering economic development, advancing social mobility, and creating positive impact through education and innovation. Open to educators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, business leaders, and community changemakers.

• Susan Wojcicki Legacy Empowerment Award: Named after Susan Wojcicki, this award honors a visionary leader who empowers individuals and communities through innovation, education, and technology. Recipients embody the spirit of empowerment and leave a lasting legacy of inclusive growth and transformative change.

Nomination Process: Nominations open April 1–June 30. A committee of esteemed judges will review all nominations, with winners announced by September 1 and formally recognized during TGIF 2025.

Learn More