Challenge Timeline
From launch to implementation. Every milestone on the journey to transforming foster care through innovative solutions
Information Sessions
Join us to learn about the challenge, ask questions, and get support with your application
Nonprofit Track Info Session
Overview of the nonprofit grant track, eligibility requirements, selection criteria, and live Q&A with Flourish Fund team.
View SlidesSocial Enterprise Track Info Session
Overview of the social enterprise track operated by Eagle Freedom Fund II. Learn about evaluation criteria and investment structure.
Learn More at Eagle Freedom Fund IIFor-profit track managed by Eagle Freedom Fund II
Live Pitch Event
Top finalists pitch live to judges. Winners announced on stage. A celebration of innovation in foster care!
All finalists will be recognized and celebrated
Phase 1: Launch & Applications
Public launch of the Innovation Challenge with an information session to support prospective applicants across both tracks.
Public Launch & Applications Open
The Innovation Challenge is officially announced and the landing page goes live. Application portals open for both tracks: Nonprofits apply through Flourish Fund; social enterprises apply through Eagle Freedom Fund II.
Information Session
Virtual session covering the challenge overview, eligibility, focus areas, selection criteria, and application process. Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the Innovation Challenge.
Application Deadline Reminder
Email reminder sent to registered participants one week before the application deadline.
Applications Close
Final application deadline at 11:59 PM ET. Confirmation emails are sent to all applicants.
Phase 2: Review & Selection
Applications are reviewed by the judging panel and finalists advance through interviews before winners are selected.
Applications Distributed to Judges
Eligible applications are compiled and distributed to the judging panel for review.
Semi-Finalists Notified
Semi-finalists are identified and summary materials are prepared for final review.
Finalist Interviews
Interviews will be conducted with semi-finalist organizations to learn more about their innovations and implementation plans.
Winners Notified
Winners are notified ahead of the public announcement.
Phase 3: Winner Announcement & Awards
Winners are announced at a live event celebrating innovation in foster care and family preservation. All finalists are recognized and Audience Choice Awards are announced.
Winner Announcement Event
Winners are announced at a live event celebrating innovation in foster care and family preservation. All finalists are recognized and Audience Choice Awards are announced.
Post-Event Follow-Up
Grant agreements and award terms are finalized. Winning organizations are briefed on reporting expectations and next steps.
First Disbursements
Initial grant funds are distributed to nonprofit winners. Eagle Freedom Fund II finalizes investment terms with social enterprise winners.
Phase 4: Implementation
Winning organizations implement their innovations with milestone-based reporting and support.
Implementation Begins
Awardees begin executing their innovation plans using challenge funding.
Progress Check-Ins
Regular check-ins track progress, surface challenges, and provide support to awardees.
Mark Your Calendar
Key dates for the National Foster Care Innovation Challenge
Ready to Apply?
Applications open Mar 18 - Apr 16, 2026. Deadline is 11:59pm ET on the final day.
View Application Details