Booz Allen Foundation launched a $1M fund to support COVID-19 solutions

Downtown D.C.-based Booz Allen Foundation announced a $1 million fund to support nonprofits, small businesses and individuals building COVID-19 solutions on Thursday.

Founded in 2017 as a separate entity from Booz Allen Hamilton, the foundation was created to convene stakeholders to address social issues and how they can be solved through technology solutions.

From April 30 until June 5, the Booz Allen Hamilton Innovation Fund is accepting grant applications from nonprofits, small businesses and individuals working on new tech such as systems, products and processes that address COVID-19-related problems. These initiatives can focus on areas such as helping communities recover from the pandemic, safely returning to work, making protective gear for front line workers and beyond.

“We are seeking the most innovative solutions to the unimaginable challenges that our world faces today as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Nancy Laben, a cofounding board member of the Booz Allen Foundation, in a statement. “Through the Innovation Fund, the Booz Allen Foundation seeks to empower individuals and organizations with resources to truly change the world and bring to life their brightest solutions in support of the most vulnerable among us as we navigate this unprecedented time together.”

As far as eligibility requirements, applicants must be based in the U.S. and have a U.S. bank account, and small businesses must employ fewer than 100 individuals. If you have more than one solution to submit, the foundation allows you to submit more than one application, though only one award will be given per entity. Semifinalist individual and small business applicants will participate in a virtual pitch and judging portion.

Individuals and small businesses selected for grants will receive up to $10,000 each and nonprofits can apply for up to $100,000. Awards are expected to be announced in July.