The Dallas nonprofit scholarships and youth mentoring programs inspirING change.
M.A.D. Pitch Competition
The "Making a Difference" (M.A.D.) Pitch Competition, initiated by Toast for Charity, is a dynamic community-focused contest designed exclusively for high school juniors and seniors. It serves as a platform for these students to share their visionary ideas for uplifting their communities. This endeavor not only amplifies their voices but also invests in their future through valuable scholarship opportunities.
We are M.A.D.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE-
Addressing the critical need for development and enrichment in underserved communities, this competition equips high school students with essential community development skills. By participating, they gain the chance to express their vision for change, fostering a brighter tomorrow for their communities.
Engaging in this competition cultivates a range of skills that will prove invaluable in their future endeavors. Participants are required to demonstrate qualities such as independence, creativity, determination, business acumen, community spirit, and effective communication. They will take their ideas from inception to a fully developed pitch deck, presenting them to a panel of judges.
These newly acquired skills not only empower students to chase their dreams but also boost their self-confidence. The competition aims to ignite a lasting passion for community development and the nonprofit sector among its participants.
Beyond the prospect of winning a scholarship, the experience of competing in this event can significantly enhance a college application, providing a competitive edge regardless of the final outcome.
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Participants must choose from three tracks: Technology, Education, or Social Innovation. The competition comprises two stages—a video submission round and a final in-person pitch round.
Registration opens on Wednesday, November 15th, with initial video submissions due by Thursday, March 14th. Finalists will be announced on Thursday, March 21st, and will advance to the live pitch event scheduled for Thursday, May 16th, 2024.
Initial submissions must include a 3-5 minute video and a completed application form. Selected finalists will be paired with mentors to develop a comprehensive business plan and pitch deck, due by Thursday, May 9th, 2024. These finalists will present their plans and pitches in a live competition in the Dallas area on Thursday, May 16th, 2024.
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Scholarship awards and prizes await the top performers, with first, second, and third-place winners receiving amounts ranging from $3,000 to $12,000. While the M.A.D. Pitch Competition may not fully fund the execution of a student's idea, it provides valuable resources to support participants in completing their submissions.
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Participants must submit a 3-5 minute pitch video addressing the question: "How would you currently use technology, education, or social innovation to make a difference in your community?"
Submission of an application form by the specified deadline is mandatory to be considered for scholarship awards. Confirmation of submission will be communicated via email by the sponsoring organization.
Eligible participants must be high school juniors or seniors at the time of initial submission.
Participants should be of African American and/or Latinx descent.
Targeting students residing in or attending high school in traditionally marginalized communities in Dallas, Texas.
Award recipients must provide proof of enrollment in college or trade school within one year of high school graduation to receive the scholarship award.
Making a Difference
