2026/27 CHANGEmaker Program Applications Open

Student CHANGEmakers with their funding awards at the Philanthropy Tank's 11th Annual Finals Event at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach.

(Press Release) PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLA. - Philanthropy Tank, a Palm Beach County-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering the next generation of student CHANGEmakers, has officially opened applications for its 2026-2027 program year.

Now through October 15, students in grades 8 through 11 who live or attend school in Palm Beach County are invited to apply with innovative, sustainable solutions to social issues affecting their schools and communities.

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Student CHANGEmakers with their funding awards at the Philanthropy Tank's 11th Annual Finals Event at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach.

Philanthropy Tank challenges and equips young leaders by providing mentorship, professional development, funding, and access to community leaders who can help bring their ideas to life. Selected finalists will present their projects before a panel of Philanthropist Investors and have the opportunity to receive funding awards ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, along with a year of one-on-one mentorship from prominent local business and philanthropic leaders.

"We believe young people often see challenges and solutions that adults miss," said Kelley Whiter, 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 in funding to student-led initiatives, and helped launch more than 80 youth-driven social impact programs addressing issues ranging from education and environmental sustainability to mental health, food insecurity, and support for older adults.

A 2025 finalist project, TechEase, founded by American Heritage Schools graduates Enan Khan and Rayan Kha, demonstrates how young people can identify a community need and build a solution with lasting impact. Through student-led technology support workshops, more than 30 student volunteers have contributed over 525 hours helping 374 seniors across 12 Palm Beach County senior communities gain confidence with technology, stay connected to loved ones, and avoid an estimated $9,200 in online scam losses.

To support students throughout the application process, Philanthropy Tank will host a series of interactive workshops designed to help applicants refine their ideas, strengthen their proposals, and learn more about the program.


Summer Application Workshops:

• In-Person Workshops: July 23 and August 1 at 10 a.m. - 11:30 am at the Mandel Public Library in West Palm Beach.
• Virtual Workshop: August 15 from 10:00–11:00 a.m.
• Advance registration is required: For more information and to register contact [email protected].
  
  
  

Appliation Guidelines:

• Eligibility: Students in grades 8 through 11 who live or attend school in Palm Beach County
• Team Size: Applications may be submitted by individual students or teams of up to four students
• Focus: Projects must address a specific social issue affecting Palm Beach County
• Application Deadline: October 15, 2026
  
  
  

Students selected for the yearlong program receive far more than funding. Participants gain access to:

One-on-one mentorship from experienced philanthropists and community leaders

• Professional development workshops and leadership training
• Media and public speaking opportunities
• Networking with government, business, and nonprofit leaders
• Award and scholarship nomination opportunities
• Practical experience designing, launching, and sustaining a community impact initiative
  
  
  

Applications are open through October 15, 2026.


To learn more, explore past student projects, register for a workshop, or apply, visit www.philanthropytank.org or email [email protected].