Global Challenge Grants

High School Students Collaborate with Peers Abroad on Global Climate Change

Supported by the University of Vermont College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences and the National Science Foundation, this program provides high school students here and abroad the opportunity to create new solutions that address global warming and the future of energy.

Teams of four students aged 14-17 work together across the globe to create a feasible business plan that offers an innovative solution to problems associated with global climate change, and a presentation that demonstrates each team member's understanding of the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics of their solution, as well as its global business potential. Students receive assistance in finding and collaborating with overseas team members, as well as mentoring by University of Vermont college students, community members, and other professionals.

Up to $40,000 in college scholarships is awarded to members of winning teams. In addition, any idea, product, service, or other thing of value (the "idea") developed through participation becomes the property of the team and Global Challenge, Inc. (see Web site for more details).

Online registration is free and open year around, however, there is a fixed activity schedule. In January, or before if your team is ready, each team submits a brief outline of its innovative idea. The main activities run from September to April each year. Solutions are judged each May and college scholarships and prizes awarded in June. Registration is now available for the 2008-2009 cycle.

Visit www.globalchallengeaward.org for more information, to register, and to view winning projects. There is also a downloadable brochure ( 3,166KB, 2pp) available.