Generation among top 100 proposals for MacArthur $100 million grant

High-scoring "100&Change" applications featured in Bold Solutions Network

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation today unveiled Generation was one of the highest-scoring proposals, designated as the Top 100, in its 100&Change competition for a single $100 million grant to help solve one of the world’s most critical social challenges.

The competition has attracted wide, global participation. Nearly 3,700 registrants submitted 755 proposals—475 of those passed the initial administrative review, and then 100 of them were selected as top contenders after subsequent rounds of judging. The proposals were rigorously vetted, undergoing MacArthur’s initial administrative review, a Peer-to-Peer review, an evaluation by an external panel of judges, and a technical review by specialists whose expertise was matched to the project. Each proposal was evaluated using four criteria: impactful, evidence-based, feasible, and durable. 

Generation’s proposal would expand our current work with public vocational institutions, often called “technical and vocational education and training” (TVETs). These institutions often have urgent policy mandates and access to significant funding and infrastructure. By working in partnership with them to embed Generation’s methodology, we can expand their offerings and improve outcomes to create change on a scale that results in careers for millions of diverse people in professions that were previously beyond their reach.

“We are thrilled that Generation is moving forward in MacArthur’s 100&Change competition as one of the Top 100,” said Mona Mourshed, CEO of Generation. “We are particularly honored given that we are only five years old. We believe our approach has the potential to unlock employment opportunity for millions of people, and we are thankful to our funding and implementation partners across the world for enabling our impact with learners and employers”

“MacArthur seeks to generate increased recognition, exposure, and support for the high-impact ideas designated as the Top 100,” said Cecilia Conrad, CEO of Lever for Change and MacArthur Managing Director, 100&Change. “Based on our experience in the first round of 100&Change, we know the competition will produce multiple compelling and fundable ideas. We are committed to matching philanthropists with powerful solutions and problem solvers to accelerate social change.” 

Since the inaugural competition, other funders and philanthropists have committed an additional $419 million to date to support bold solutions by 100&Change applicants. 

The Bold Solutions Network launched today, featuring Generation as one of the Top 100 from 100&Change. The network is intended to help philanthropic donors identify effective solutions that align with their goals.