Five finalists advance to final phase of the Challenge Grant

Alliance Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has selected five finalists who will compete for the foundation’s 2022 $1 Million Innovation Initiative (i2) milestone-based challenge grant. These finalists were chosen from a group of 10 semifinalists, following eight weeks of workshops and mentoring, and a hybrid virtual/in-person pitch event on July 13 which included a panel of 17 evaluators, comprised of community residents, AHF Program Committee members and AHF staff.

“It has been so inspiring to meet so many passionate, committed social entrepreneurs who are dedicating time, talent and treasure to address some of the most challenging racial and social inequities in our community,” said Alliance Healthcare Foundation Executive Director, Sarah Lyman. “With our $1 million innovation challenge grant, we aim to support a highly promising innovation that is working toward closing equity gaps within our region. Our hope is that through the i2 process, all finalists will be able to significantly advance their solution through access to customized mentorship, grant funding and other support along the way.

“The top five finalists selected are serving some of the most marginalized populations in our region and are all working to directly address significant racial and social inequities. Populations served include the formerly incarcerated, immigrants and refugees, youth, communities of color, and communities experiencing challenges with food insecurity, access to quality jobs, trauma, and accessible mental health services.

Guiding and mentoring the i2 candidates along the i2 journey, is innovation partner Nex Cubed. “During Phase 2, Nex Cubed had an opportunity to work hand in hand with each of the companies to refine their product-market fit and prepare the teams for the finalist pitches. Supporting the noble missions and visions of each of the teams has been extremely rewarding thus far. We look forward to continuing to work with this distinguished group of founders throughout Phase 3 of their i2 journey,” said Nex Cubed CEO, Marlon Evans.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FINALISTS!

Kitchens for Good

Project New Village

Urban Restoration Counseling Center

Welfie

Youth Empowerment San Diego