The Contribution Project Empowers Young Changemakers with $400 to Improve Their Communities
The Contribution Project is offering $400 grants to individuals between the ages of 14 and 25 living in the United States or its territories.
Young people passionate about making a difference in their communities now have an opportunity to turn their ideas into action. The Contribution Project is offering $400 grants to individuals between the ages of 14 and 25 living in the United States or its territories. The initiative encourages youth to design and implement their own community-based projects that bring about positive change.
Applications for the Contribution Project are open from February 1 to February 21, 2025. Organizers describe it as both a research initiative and an investment in young people, aiming to support their efforts to improve the world around them in ways that matter most to them.
The project was launched following Dr. Anthony Burrow’s recognition as a recipient of Cornell University’s Engaged Scholar Prize in 2019. The award provided funding to further support student engagement and learning opportunities. Rather than dictate how students should engage, Dr. Burrow and his team chose to give them the resources to pursue projects they are genuinely passionate about. This idea became the foundation of the Contribution Project.
Since its inception, more than 850 individuals and teams have received support to bring their ideas to life. Projects have ranged from community service initiatives to innovative solutions addressing local challenges.
In 2024, the Contribution Project expanded to include students at Binghamton University and Stony Brook University, in addition to its original partnership with Cornell University. The launch of the National Contribution Project further broadened its reach, connecting with organizations across the country. Surveys from 2024 participants show the initiative’s positive impact: 100% reported enjoying the experience, and 91% said they learned skills that would benefit them in the future.
Organizers believe that supporting young people’s contributions helps drive societal progress. Research has shown that contributing to others can have positive effects not only on the recipients but also on the contributors themselves, fostering personal growth and a sense of purpose.
The Contribution Project aims to create a ripple effect—empowering youth to spark innovation and inspire meaningful change in their communities and beyond.