So, you're building a dynamic transdisciplinary team* for Wege Prize 2021 and you're excited to tackle some truly wicked problems while competing for over $30,000 USD in total cash prizes.
But did you know that this multi-phase competition is broken down into manageable parts, including built-in feedback loops from competition judges each step of the way?
What's more, your first step—applying for Wege Prize 2021—is easy! We'll show you how below.
*Still looking for teammates? Join the Wege Prize LinkedIn Group to connect with other potential participants from all over the world!
To apply, all you need to do is introduce your team, tell us where your interests lie, and submit a brief research plan that will ultimately help you develop your solution.
You do not need to identify and defend a specific solution at this point in the competition. Keep your writing concise and focused on the big picture, and don’t worry about being bold with your intentions–we expect your idea to change and grow significantly!
STEP 1: THE APPLICATION FORM
The Wege Prize 2021 application form can be filled out in a matter of minutes. Just provide some basic information about the five members of your team and you're good to go!
STEP 2: THE TEAM INTRODUCTION
Along with the application form, teams will also submit a 500–1000 word Team Introduction that answers the following questions:
Why is your team interested in participating in Wege Prize 2021?
How and why did you choose your team members?
How will your transdisciplinary makeup enable you to succeed?
What steps has your team taken to understand the basics of the circular economy?
What do you find most exciting/inspiring about the circular economy and the possibilities it creates?
STEP 3: THE RESEARCH PLAN
Teams will also submit a 500–1000 word Research Plan that answers the following questions:
What problem or opportunity are you interested in addressing?
How could addressing the problem or opportunity support the development of a circular economy?
What basic research have you done to understand the human, technological, and ecological factors involved in your approach?
How do you plan to involve mentors and/or subject matter experts in your design process?
What are your next steps?
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
JUDGES' FEEDBACK
Teams will receive feedback on their Team Introductions/Research Plans directly from the Wege Prize judges, who will identify early strengths and weaknesses in their approach and help them refine their ideas for the next phase.
LEVERAGING EXISTING PROJECTS
You may already be working on a project, either for school or on your own, that would make a great starting point for you to develop into a Wege Prize solution with others. And guess what? We encourage you to do just that!
THE WEGEPRIZE.ORG RESOURCES SECTION
If you're looking for ideas and inspiration for your Research Plan, look no further than the resources section of wegeprize.org. This diverse and far-reaching portal of information pertaining to the circular economy, design thinking, emerging materials and technologies, business model development, and more is the perfect starting point for a strong foundation of research.
READY TO APPLY?
The team application period for Wege Prize 2021 is now open! Teams must apply by November 9, 2020 to be able to compete. Click here for complete details.
Questions? Please feel free to reach out to wicked@wegeprize.org.