George Washington University
IN-2: Innovation 2

The GW Eco-Equity Challenge, Sponsored by Siemens Industry, Inc., Building Technologies Division Think Sustainability. Think Justice. Make Eco-Equity. The GW Office of Sustainability and the Center for Civic Engagement and Public Service are providing an opportunity to support GW students in their social entrepreneurial efforts to address environmental and social justice issues in Washington, D.C. The grant comes as part of the ongoing collaboration between The George Washington University and Siemens Industry, Inc., Building Technologies Division, and is part of their joint commitment to environmental and social sustainability. Launched in January 2015, GW students are invited to propose a project in collaboration with a community partner that enhances the local community. The project must have both environmental AND social impact in an under-served or low-income local community, and be responsive to the assets and needs of the community. Environmental impact can include directly addressing a local environmental problem or improving local environmental quality. Social impact can involve increased inclusion and participation of local residents in taking action to improve their neighborhood, getting involved in decision-making, or other direct benefits. A total of $15,000 is available for one or more winning student projects. Students are required to work with a GW faculty or staff mentor as a resource, and are not prohibited from receiving additional grants for their projects. Projects must have a positive impact within an under-served or low-income neighborhood in or around Washington, D.C. Projects can build on past or ongoing work with a community partner, or a new relationship can be established with a community partner. Projects must also raise awareness within the GW community about environmental/climate justice. Projects targeting the GW campus may also be considered, and should endeavor to demonstrate a local impact beyond campus. Project deliverables will include a written report and publicly available video or live presentation that outlines the project, your experience with it, and its outcomes. Deliverables also include the project itself and a plan to sustain the project beyond the life of the initial funding.