Utah Nonprofit Launches Policy Pitch Competition with Cash Rewards

A Utah-based nonprofit organization has initiated a pitch competition designed to solicit innovative policy solutions aimed at enhancing the quality of life across the Beehive State. The organization is offering substantial rewards, up to $10,000, for the most compelling proposals.

The Policy Project officially launched this initiative on Monday, encouraging Utahns to submit bold and actionable policy ideas. The central focus of these submissions must be addressing a significant problem currently impacting children and families within Utah.

Prizes and Presentation Opportunities

The competition features three top finalists who will secure a cash prize. Furthermore, these finalists will gain the opportunity to present their concepts directly to state lawmakers and subject matter experts.

This presentation event is scheduled to take place at the inaugural Policy Pitch Summit on June 12. This summit marks a new formal step in the organization's problem-solving methodology.

The Policy Project's Mission and Approach

Emily Bell McCormick, President of The Policy Project, emphasized the organization's commitment to grassroots input. "At the Policy Project, our process of identifying issues and solutions starts with listening — to community members, practitioners, researchers and people with lived experience of the problems we're trying to solve," McCormick stated.

She added that the competition formalizes this listening process. "If you've ever thought 'there's a better way to do this,' we want to hear from you," she concluded.

Submission Guidelines and Eligibility

The contest is open to all members of the public, though submissions must target a genuine problem. Proposals must be practical, evidence-based, and represent policies not currently implemented in Utah.

Marin Christensen, the nonprofit's policy development manager, clarified that the primary focus is on state-level policy proposals. The competition accommodates both policy professionals and general community members.

Accessibility and Expertise Criteria

Christensen noted that while research and evidence are mandatory for all applications, the contest features distinct scoring criteria for different tracks. This structure is intended to increase accessibility for diverse applicants.

"It's very important to hear from these local experts," Christensen told KSL on Monday. She stressed that even community members who are experts through lived experience offer invaluable insights for the organization to gather new ideas.

Key Focus Areas for Policy Ideas

Submissions should aim to address at least one of the core areas prioritized by The Policy Project. These areas include:

  • Supporting children and families.
  • Building the middle class.
  • Strengthening public education.
  • Helping people meet basic needs.
  • Fixing inefficient and inequitable systems.
  • Promoting health.
  • Preventing abuse, violence and exploitation.

The Policy Project's Recent Legislative Successes

The Policy Project has actively engaged with state lawmakers in recent years to advance specific legislation. Their past advocacy has successfully pushed for measures such as providing period products in schools.

The organization also supported legislation to expand child sexual abuse prevention education and increase access to free school meals. This year, The Policy Project was instrumental in passing bills related to improving access to child care.