Rise and Equitech Futures Launch Innovation Fund Challenge to Support Next-Generation Innovators

Equitech Futures, a leading innovation lab and global talent hub, today announced the launch of the Rise Innovation Fund Challenge in collaboration with Rise, a program that supports promising young people and provides them with opportunities that allow them to work together to serve others over their lifetimes. The challenge provides financial support, training and mentorship to Rise Fellows and Finalists to develop startups that use technology to solve real-world challenges.

Running from February through July 2026, the Challenge will help participants develop validated ideas, test prototypes, and advance solutions toward real-world implementation. Up to 15 finalists will receive $500 each for prototyping and experimentation. Six teams will advance to the final round. Three winners will receive $10,000 each, and three runners-up will receive $5,000 each.

The challenge is among the benefits offered to Rise Fellows and Finalists, providing the opportunity to apply for funding that allows them to experiment with innovative ideas that address a range of challenges–from environmental and social to healthcare and education–on a local or global scale. Applications may be submitted by individuals or teams. 

“This program responds to a critical need in a world where AI models and new technology-enabled tools are becoming more powerful by the day - supporting talented young people with strong ideas so they can build real-world solutions. What makes this Challenge distinctive is its emphasis on creative support alongside financial support,” said Dr. Abhilash Mishra, Founder of Equitech Futures.

The Challenge includes two tracks for different types of ventures, supporting both scalable technology products or services and mission-driven nonprofit or hybrid models.

Proposed solutions may draw on any form of technology, including AI, data, web, mobile, or other tools, but all submissions should focus on using technology to address a real problem in healthcare, education, climate, or governance affecting their communities.

Fifteen finalists will participate in a structured program that includes workshops, mentorship, and technical guidance from Equitech Futures faculty and network experts.

Beyond the competition, all 15 finalists will receive ongoing benefits including membership in a bespoke Equitech-Rise Network, mentorship, and guidance on accessing future funding pathways.

The Challenge is open to Rise Fellows and Finalists age 18 or older by March 20, 2026, from any cohort year. The program is designed for innovators at the idea stage, with or without existing prototypes.

Additional information about tracks, application requirements, timelines, selection criteria, funding, and program resources is available directly through Rise and Equitech Futures.

The Rise Innovation Fund Challenge builds on more than four years of collaboration between Rise and Equitech Futures.

‍

About Rise

Rise is a program that supports promising young people and provides them with opportunities that allow them to work together to serve others over their lifetimes. The program starts at ages 15–17 and encourages a lifetime of service and learning by providing support that includes need-based scholarships, mentorship, networking, access to career development opportunities, and the potential for additional funding as Rise Global Fellows work toward solving humanity’s most pressing problems. For more information about Rise, visit www.risefortheworld.org.

About Equitech Futures

Equitech Futures is an innovation lab and global talent hub. Equitech Futures has hosted 15 institutes supporting more than 400 scholars across 70 countries, providing hands-on mentorship, technical training, and community building for innovators developing technology solutions for social good. The organization specializes in early-stage venture development, offering comprehensive support that combines entrepreneurial education with practical resources including technical expertise, leadership communication, and access to an extensive network of technologists and entrepreneurs. Equitech Futures has worked with the Rhodes Trust, Rise, and the University of Chicago to launch institutes and forums that empower diverse groups of changemakers to transform ideas into meaningful impact. Learn more at https://www.equitechfutures.com/.