InnovateHERs Scholarship Challenge

Empowering young women in business is one of the most important things that can be done to invest in the future of the world.

Women bring the unique perspectives, creative ideas, and dedication necessary to launch successful businesses that benefit their communities. Unfortunately, very few resources exist for young women who want to start businesses. Facing stereotypes, biases, financial struggles, and other challenges can make it difficult for young women to grow into the entrepreneurs and business leaders they could be.

This scholarship aims to support female students who plan to spend their careers as entrepreneurs and business leaders. 

Any female-identifying high school student who has an interest in pursuing business may apply for this scholarship opportunity.

No essay is required to apply for this scholarship. Instead, create a compelling two-page business plan for a product or service of your choice, whether real or hypothetical, and upload it as a file. Submissions will be judged with the goal of identifying innovative ideas that demonstrate both vision and practicality. This is your opportunity to showcase your entrepreneurial skills, think boldly, and bring your best ideas to life.

The business plan must include:

1. Business Name & Concept - A short elevator pitch (1–3 sentences).

2. Product or Service Description - What it is, how it works.

3. Visual Representation - At least one image or design of the product (digital mockup, physical prototype photo, hand-drawn sketch, cardboard model, etc.).

4. Target Market - Who it’s for and why they would buy it.

5. Value Proposition - Why it stands out from competitors.

6. Financial Plan - Show projected startup costs, expected expenses, and revenue estimates. Include potential sources of funding (self-funding, angel investors, crowdfunding, loans, etc.).

7. Implementation Plan - Rough timeline and key steps for bringing the idea to life.

8. Social Impact (optional but encouraged) - Any positive societal or environmental effect.

Grading Rubric:

• Creativity & Innovation (10 points): Unique idea, fresh approach, imaginative solution.

• Clarity of Concept (10 pts): Clear and compelling explanation; easy to understand.

• Feasibility & Practicality (10 pts): Realistic plan given the concept (even if hypothetical).

• Market Understanding (5 pts): Clear target audience, market need identified.

• Value Proposition (5 pts): Strong differentiation from competitors.

• Financial Plan (10 pts): Realistic, well-thought-out costs, funding, and revenue projections.

• Presentation & Organization (5 pts): Professional format, well-structured, within page limit.