What are the expected outputs of an accepted OneBeat Accelerator seed grant?

1) a public-facing presentation of your experience or process (for example, a virtual panel discussion, a short video shared on social media, a blog post, etc.)

2) a brief final report within 6-8 months of receiving the grant

What is the selection criteria for choosing a OneBeat accelerator?

1)Vision/Scope: How innovative & compelling is the project?

2) Impact/Need: Who will the project impact, and what will be the strength of that impact?

3) Feasibility/Clarity: What is the capacity of the individual/team to meet this project’s goals?

OneBeat Accelerator applications will be reviewed by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, Found Sound Nation, and a jury of outside expert reviewers.

Can I submit more than one Accelerator application if I have multiple projects?

No, you can only submit one proposal each application cycle. However, you are welcome to reapply as many times as you would like in subsequent years.

I've applied and been rejected for an Accelerator in the past. Can I reapply with the same project idea?

Yes, you're welcome to reapply. We recommend updating your writing with any new information and progress you've made on your project since your last application.

I've already received an Accelerator award in the past. Can I reapply?

If you have previously received a OneBeat Accelerator grant, you will not be eligible for another award for 3 years.

What are the funding priorities for the Accelerator grant?

Accelerator grants support projects that advance democratic principles around the globe including, but not limited to, access to education, community resilience, conflict transformation, diversity and inclusion, economic empowerment, environmental protection, media literacy, and youth engagement.

What does the Accelerator seed grant NOT support?

Project proposals that are centered around the creation of an album or recording will not be funded. (The exception, however, is If an album or recording is an output of a larger project, but not the central focus of the proposal.) Also, please note as a U.S. State Department seed grant emphasizing global exchange, projects from alumni based in the United States must include an international exchange component to be competitive for an Accelerator award.

What will Accelerator recipients receive?

Up to 8 Accelerator proposals will receive seed grant funding of $2,500 - $5,000 each, pending available funding. The majority of Accelerator awards will be seed grants of $2500. Based on the availability of funds and the strength of the application, a recipient may receive up to $5000.