FYI Award Application

The FYI Award honors youth who demonstrate growth, leadership, and commitment to building their future. Share your story and apply today.

A diverse group of happy young friends reaching towards the camera outdoors.

Apply to Be Part of the FutureYOUth Initiative Ecosystem

The FYI Awards recognize programs, teams, and young people who are creating meaningful opportunities, support, and connection for youth during critical transition years.

Applying to the FYI Awards is more than submitting a form — it is an entry point into the broader FutureYOUth Initiative ecosystem, which includes youth voice conversations, insight through SEE360™, community visibility, and participation in FutureCon.

Who Should Apply

FYI Awards applications are open to:

Programs, Teams, & Groups

  • High school–based programs
  • Sports, arts, and extracurricular teams
  • Youth development and community organizations
  • Mentoring, leadership, STEM, and enrichment programs
  • Connecticut-based groups serving high school–aged youth
Programs, Teams, & Groups

Individual Youth Innovators

  • High school students with ideas, projects, or solutions
  • Youth who see a need and want to help other young people succeed
  • Connecticut residents or students attending school in Connecticut

FYI welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, communities, and identities.
This initiative is grounded in connection and belonging — not labels or categories.

Individual Youth Innovators

What Applicants Receive

All applicants who join the FYI ecosystem may be invited to:

  • Participate in Youth Community Conversations
  • Complete the SEE360â„¢ Snapshot Scorecard (group-level insight)
  • Attend FutureCon, FYI’s youth-centered conference
  • Receive visibility through FYI storytelling and recognition efforts
  • Be considered for FYI Awards and finalist opportunities

Participation in FYI activities may contribute to award consideration.

A group of diverse friends chatting outdoors in a modern urban setting.
A diverse group in a therapy session sharing and listening.

About the Awards

FYI Awards are designed to support:

  • Youth-serving programs strengthening belonging and wellness
  • Youth-led ideas that address real challenges facing young people

Award support is intended to help expand impact, not replace existing funding.
Awards are not personal stipends and must be used for youth-focused purposes.

Finalists and award recipients will receive additional recognition and opportunities for visibility within the FYI ecosystem.

Award Categories

FYI offers two award tracks:

Program Awards

For any youth-serving group, including:

  • sports teams
  • youth development programs
  • arts & dance programs
  • mentoring groups
  • school clubs
  • college organizations
  • faith-based groups
  • community programs

Individual Awards

For young people with powerful ideas to strengthen youth support, opportunities, or wellbeing.

This category celebrates creativity, leadership, and vision.

Eligibility

Programs and individuals must:

  • Be based in Connecticut
  • Serve youth ages 14–22
  • Submit a complete application by the deadline
  • Participate in SEE360 Snapshot or Youth Voice components

There is no cost to participate.

Before You Apply

Applicants should be prepared to:

  • Share information about their program or idea
  • Participate in FYI activities if selected
  • Engage youth voice respectfully and responsibly
  • Follow all FYI rules, eligibility guidelines, and participation expectations

Full details are outlined in the FYI Awards Rules & Eligibility Guidelines.

A diverse group of young adults collaborating around a table in a bright workspace.

The FYI Award Process

Timeline

January — Applications Open

February — Applications Due

May — Finalists Spotlighted at FutureCon

October — Winners Announced at the FYI Data Reveal

A downloadable timeline graphic can be added here.

Download FYI Award Rules

How to Apply

Applying is simple:

  1. Complete the FYI Awards application form
  2. Submit optional videos, photos, or examples of your work
  3. Participate in the SEE360 Snapshot or Youth Voice components
  4. Stay connected for finalist announcements
Apply to the FYI Programs, Teams & Groups Award
Apply to the FYI Individual Youth Innovators Awards
Diverse team collaborating around a table in a modern office space.

Apply Below

Choose the application that best fits you:

Programs, Teams, & Groups
Individual Youth Innovators

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis during the FYI cycle.

Questions?

If you are unsure which application is right for you, or have questions before applying, please contact us at: