Sappi says that it has witnessed this "world-changing work" first hand and remains committed to the belief that "good ideas inspire people to take action, great ideas change the world."
Ideas that Matter remains the only grant program of its kind in the industry, the company notes. Since 1999, Sappi has funded more than 500 nonprofit projects, contributing more than $12 million worldwide to causes that enhance people's lives, communities, and the planet as a whole. Since the program's inception, Ideas that Matter funded projects have addressed societal issues from diversity and human rights campaigns to projects that focus on health and youth development. In tracking the program's long-term success, Sappi estimates that these projects have directly impacted the lives and environments of people and communities across 24 states and 15 countries.
Each project concept and design entry to Ideas that Matter is evaluated on creativity, potential effectiveness, and practicality of the implementation plan by an annually selected, independent panel of judges comprised of leaders and influencers in the design industry.
Individual designers, design firms, agencies, in-house corporate design departments, design instructors, individual design students, and design student groups can apply for an Ideas that Matter grant. The designer or the nonprofit must be based in North America. Grant awards range from $5,000 to $50,000 per project. At least a portion of the project must be printed, though additional elements may include a variety of communication mediums. And, for the first time in 2013, proposals may include up to 10% of the total budget as an honorarium for the applying designer or design firm.
An entry form and more information about Ideas that Matter can be obtained online, or by calling 800-882-4332. Applications for proposals must be postmarked by July 19. The winners will be announced in September.
TAPPI
http://www.tappi.org/