FAQ

Who is eligible for the FCRC Runnovation Prize?

Any member of the Fort Collins Running Club can apply.

How much money is the FCRC Runnovation Prize?

The prize is for a project or projects up to a total to $10,000.

When is the deadline for the 2017 FCRC Runnovation Prize application?

Video pitches and the initial application must be submitted by May 1th, 2018 at 11:59pm MDT.

How do I apply?

There are just a few simple steps you need to take to apply: First, download and complete this brief application.

Then, record a 90-second YouTube video pitching your idea. Submit the brief application including the YouTube link to us by email at administrative@fortcollinsrunningclub.org. You’ll be notified on or before June 1st, 2018 if you’ve made it to the next round of the process.”

How do I make my pitch video compelling?

Be yourself. Rehearse your pitch before recording it. Be funny. Be memorable. Be yourself. Feel free to use props, friends, sound effects, costumes. Make us laugh. Make us cry. Be yourself.

Try to record videos in landscape view (sideways) rather than portrait view. Face toward windows and light sources instead of away from them. Don’t hide your face!

How do I submit a YouTube video?

You can upload YouTube videos via your web browser or mobile device.

Instructions if using a smartphone:

  1. Record your video in your phone’s Camera app.
  2. Tap the “Share” button.
  3. Tap “Upload to YouTube.”
  4. Enter your YouTube account information.
  5. Give your project a catchy name and use it as the title of your YouTube video.
  6. Be sure to tag your video with the #FCRCprize hashtag.
  7. Once the video is uploaded, copy the URL. You will need to paste it into your application.

What if I go over time on my 90 second pitch?

You will be eliminated from the competition.

What happens after the initial pitch and application?

Within one or two days, we will post your video pitch on a page on this website. Then, wait to see if you get selected as a finalist!

Finalists will be announced by June 1st, 2018. They will then be required to complete a comprehensive application that includes a budget, references and in-depth questions about their project. There will be an additional interview for finalists.

How will finalists be chosen?

There are three ways to make it into the final round:

  1. Get the most YouTube video likes and automatically be entered into the final round as the Crowd Favorite Finalist.
  2. Get the most FCRC member votes (per electronic survey to be sent to all FCRC members after May 1st) and be entered into the final round as the Member Favorite Finalist.
  3. Be selected by the FCRC Runnovation Prize committee. The committee will review every pitch and the best of the best will progress to the final round.

As soon as I finish uploading my video pitch to YouTube, can I start publicizing it to try to round up as many “likes” as possible?

YES! We encourage you to share your video with anyone and as soon as possible. Those who do so can get an advantage to be a Crowd Favorite Finalist.

If I am a finalist, then what?

Finalists will need to complete a comprehensive application that will be sent to them on June 1st. These applications are due by July 1st, 2018. Prize winner(s) will be announced on or before July 15th, 2018.

Can I “like” more than one video pitch?

Definitely! We closely monitor social media engagement, so if you want to have a say in the process, “like” as many videos and as often as you want. Like them on the website, on YouTube, and share with your folks!

I have ideas for multiple projects. Can I submit more than one pitch?

Yes. However, you should make one video pitch per project. Please do not pitch multiple distinct projects in one video.

How often is the FCRC Runnovation Prize awarded?

Our vision is that the FCRC Runnovation Prize will be an annual event; 2017 is the inaugural year.

If I’m not selected, can I apply with the same project next year?

If the inaugural FCRC Runnovation Prize is a success, and offered again in 2018 then yes! But if you weren’t selected, consider how you could improve your project and pitch.

Can two candidates apply together?

Yes, but your project is eligible only to receive up to $10,000.

How do I apply if I have no access to recording equipment, or don’t know how to use a video camera?

If obtaining recording equipment is truly impossible email administrative@fortcollinsrunningclub.org with the subject line “Recording Accommodation.” Please note that recordings do not need to be fancy. We expect most people will submit a video shot and upload it using a smartphone.

Can the $10,000 include costs associated with training and preparation?

Yes.

Can I apply if I don’t speak English?

Yes. However, the selection process will be conducted in English and you will need to provide your own means of translation.

Will the prize be given in one lump sum?

No. The Prize will be given on achievement of milestones as set forth in your budget and agreed to by the FCRC Runnovation Prize Committee.

Other than completing my project, what else am I responsible for if I win?

Winners have three major expectations in addition to simply completing their project. They are:

  1. Attend pre-project board presentation.
  2. Thoroughly document your project, via audio, video, social media, photography, or another publishable media.
  3. Attend an FCRC member event to make a presentation about your experience, and to possibly pass the torch to the next round of FCRC Runnovation Prizewinners.

When would I need to complete my project?

You must complete your project in time to show a first draft of your presentation to the FCRC board by September 1st of the year after the Runnovation contest you entered.

If it’s a project that is intended to be ongoing (e.g., continues for many years), there ought to be something that you could show for it after a year. For example, if you are forming a group that does a special activity, you should be able to tell us about the members, activities and/or special event that you have done within that year.

If my project costs more than $10,000 can I use the prize and pay for the rest by other means?

Yes. However, you must include all costs in your budget, including proof that you will have access to the additional funds by the time you conduct your project.

If my project costs less than $10,000 do I get to keep the difference?

No. The FCRC Runnovation Prize is financial backing for your project. You will not be issued a check; instead, you will work with the FCRC Runnovation Prize committee to access your funds.

Is the prize need-based or merit-based? Do you consider a person’s financial background?

While not necessarily based on need, the spirit of the FCRC Runnovation Prize is to give someone a chance to do something they never would have been able to do otherwise.

If I am selected as an FCRC Runnovation Prize winner, will I have a specific point person at FCRC who can answer my questions?

Yes. You will have a member of the FCRC Runnovation Prize committee to work with you on answering any questions.

What happens if extenuating circumstances make it impossible for me to complete my project if I’m chosen as a winner?

We’ll all be bummed! You’ll be more than welcome to apply again in the future.

What if my question wasn’t answered here?

Email us at administrative@fortcollinsrunningclub.org using the subject FCRC Runnovation Prize question.

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