Philanthropy Tank opens applications for student changemakers

Student innovators receive funding through Philanthropy Tank's annual program, which supports youth-led solutions to community challenges. [Photo by Philanthropy Tank]

Philanthropy Tank is again inviting young innovators to transform their ideas into community solutions as applications open for the nonprofit’s 2026-27 program year.

Through Oct. 15, eighth- to 11th-graders who live in or attend school in Palm Beach County can apply with creative, sustainable projects that address social issues affecting their schools and communities.

The Palm Beach County-based nonprofit empowers students by providing mentorship, leadership development, funding and connections to community leaders who can help turn their ideas into reality. Finalists selected for the yearlong program will present their initiatives before a panel of philanthropist investors and compete for awards of $1,000 to $15,000.

Participants receive one-on-one mentorship from local business and philanthropic leaders.

“We believe young people often see challenges and solutions that adults miss,” says Kelley Whiter, the CEO of Philanthropy Tank. “Our role is to help students turn their ideas into action by providing funding, mentorship and access to community leaders who can help them succeed.”

Since its founding in 2015, Philanthropy Tank has engaged more than 1,000 students, awarded more than $835,000 and helped launch more than 80 youth-led social impact initiatives throughout Palm Beach County. Student projects have addressed such community issues as education, environmental sustainability, mental health, food insecurity and support for older adults.

One success story is TechEase, a 2025 finalist founded by American Heritage Schools graduates Enan Khan and Rayan Kha. The student-led initiative provides technology support workshops to help older adults become more confident using digital devices while reducing their risk of online scams. With more than 30 student volunteers, TechEase has contributed more than 525 volunteer hours, assisted 374 people at 12 Palm Beach County senior communities and helped prevent an estimated $9,200 in scam losses.

To help prospective applicants develop proposals, Philanthropy Tank will host free workshops throughout the summer. In-person workshops will be held July 23 and Aug. 1 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Mandel Public Library in West Palm Beach, followed by a virtual workshop Aug. 15 from 10 to 11 a.m. Advance registration is required.

Applications may be submitted by individual students or teams of up to four.

Projects must focus on a specific social issue within Palm Beach County.

Beyond financial support, students selected for the program receive leadership training, professional development, media and public speaking opportunities, networking with business, government and nonprofit leaders, scholarship and award nomination opportunities, and hands-on experience designing, launching and sustaining a community impact initiative.

Learn more and apply at philanthropytank.org, or email info@philanthropytank.org.