What are the basic legal requirements?
Applicants must be at least 18 and legal residents of the United States.
Any other basic requirements?
You will need a reliable internet connection and Zoom/Skype/Google Hangouts/some other video chat platform for mentor meetings.
Can I apply for both?
Sure, although we do encourage you to choose the one that best fits your business goals.
If Lisa is my mentor, can I also meet with Emily (and vice versa)?
Yes. We’ll work out the details of this once mentees are chosen, as it will depend somewhat on the mentees’ specific needs and goals. But we are planning on a bit of overlap, as well as potentially meeting as a group occasionally.
How are applicants chosen?
We will be evaluating applications with a scoring rubric that includes a list of predetermined criteria, designed to eliminate bias and maximize fairness as much as possible. Applications will be scored by Lisa, Emily, and our board members Daren Todd and Jen Hewett.
When can I expect to hear back about my application?
The application period closes February 3, and mentees will be chosen in March.
Will you let me know if I’m not chosen?
Yes, we will be contacting everyone who applied, regardless of whether you are chosen.
If I’m not chosen, will you tell me why?
Unfortunately, we don’t have the bandwidth to provide feedback on individual applications.
Will I be taxed on the grant money?
Yes, we’ll require a W9 and we’ll issue a 1099. You’ll want to consult with a tax professional for further info.
Are there any restrictions on how recipients use the grant money?
Nope. You can use it however you like. We trust your judgment.
How often will we be meeting?
Mentors and mentees will meet twice a month (every other week). Each session will last one hour. There will also be the opportunity for ongoing email support as needed, to be worked out with your mentor individually.
Where and how will we meet?
If you happen to be located in Portland, Oregon, we can meet in person at least some of the time. (Emily and Lisa are both based there.) Otherwise, we can meet via Zoom, Skype, Google Hangouts, or any other video chat platform you like. Good old-fashioned phone calls are also a possibility.
How long does the mentorship last?
One year (March 2022 – February 2023).
How can I support the foundation?
By sharing our application and mission! We are not set up to accept monetary donations from individuals. We are, however, accepting corporate donations. If you’d like to make a corporate donation, please contact us.
Can I become a mentor?
In 2023, we may expand to take on additional mentors and mentees. If you’re interested in becoming a mentor in the future, please contact us.
Have a question not covered here? Contact us.
