Innovators in Residence

From left: Hilary Abell, Dennis Campa, Stacey Epperson, Eugénie FitzGerald & José Cisneros, Mindy Hernandez

Innovators-in-Residence :: leaders at the cutting edge of approaches that expand economic opportunity

Innovators-in-Residence are strong leaders who are prepared to take their proven concept to the next level of scale and impact during a virtual or in-person residency with CFED's assistance.

innovation@cfed currently works with five (5) active Innovators-in-Residence working in a variety of topic areas. To find out more about these dynamic individuals and their approaches to expanding economic opportunity, visit the Innovation Portfolio.

How are Innovators-in-Residence selected?
Idea submissions that fit within the mission criteria will be reviewed for eligibility. A small number of applicants will be invited to submit additional information to continue in the selection process. Selections will made after review of the additional information submitted, consultations with internal and external advisors and interviewing the applicant. Announcements will be made in June 2010.

Basic criteria include:

• Innovations must have potential to create large-scale/significant impact for low- and moderate-income (LMI) individuals in the U.S., and Innovators must have a well-articulated theory of change.
• Applicants must be able to articulate the value of “embedding” the Innovation at CFED for a one- to two-year period, and describe what will be gained by leveraging CFED’s resources.
• Innovations that link community practice, public policy and/or private markets, and that are closely linked to CFED’s strategic goals will receive special consideration.
• In 2010, special focus is on Entrepreneurship and Self-Employment. Applications in other areas are also welcome.

What benefits are associated with a virtual or in-person residency?
An Innovator-in-Residence receives a stipend of up to $50,000, technical support and a 12- to 24-month virtual or on-site CFED residency to refine and grow their innovation to marketable scale or to advance it through real-world application. CFED will mobilize its human and intellectual resources, including applied research, communications, policy and program development, and the like, to support and advance an agreed-upon residency work plan.

To see a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), please click here. Should you have further questions regarding Innovators-in-Residence, please email innovation@cfed.