It’s the cheesiest (and best!) idea I’ve heard in a long time!

Frigo Cheese Heads recently launched their Build A Bright Future vision grant program, which supports tweens and teens in their efforts to see their big dreams come true. They know that if they want to ensure a bright future for the next generation, they need to invest in that generation today. So that’s exactly what they are doing!

The program's vision grants are a combination of cash prizes, mentorship and

educational programming.

Yes, you read that correctly!

Frigo Cheese Heads is giving grants to 35 deserving youth, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. They want to help grant recipients take action on their creative passions, develop entrepreneurial skills and provide funding for their business idea or nonprofit.

"Our Frigo Cheese Heads brand is all about encouraging creativity and self-expression, and this program helps us connect with young people who are doing just that in their communities," said Nicole Austin, Saputo USA marketing manager - retail dairy.

This isn’t the first time Frigo Cheese Heads has dedicated funds to the next generation of leaders. The Build a Bright Future program is in its 10th year. Last year’s grand prize winner, Boone Donley, was awarded a grant for his inspiring efforts to end bullying in his community, which soon grew into something much bigger. Boone started an anti-bullying initiative by handing out stickers at local events and soon was sending “Encouragement Kits” to kids in 38 states and nine countries to help them feel connected and empowered.

Victoria Woodruff, 11, of Imperial, Missouri, was selected as a previous winner for her passion of making videos for those with disabilities and received financial support to help her pursue an education to become a special-education teacher. So, whether an idea has been launched or is just getting started, the Build a Bright Future program is ready to support the idea.

A total of 35 winners will each receive their share of $75,000 in cash prizes and $75,000 in mentorship and educational programming prizes in early 2024, including the following:

• Five grand prize winners will receive a $5,000 grant and educational opportunities through WIT, a custom virtual mentorship program, a four-week entrepreneurial/leadership course, and one year of access to the WIT Community, a membership-based entrepreneurial organization.

• 10 first prize winners will be awarded a $3,000 grant, participation in a four-week WIT entrepreneurial/leadership course and one year of access to the WIT Community.

• 20 honorable mention winners will be awarded a $1,000 grant, participation in a four-week WIT entrepreneurial/leadership course and one year of access to the WIT Community.

As a former teacher, I think this is a great opportunity for your students. What better way to get them engaged in improving their school, community and world?! There are such positive effects on young people when they feel a sense of purpose and are involved in taking action in the communities.

So, if you’re interested - check out the rules below for how to apply!

… And shout out to Frigo Cheese Heads’ Nicole Austin for reminding us, “There are many ways to eat our cheese snacks, just like there are many ways to make a difference. We look forward to seeing all the ways applicants dream of putting their passions to work and helping them make it happen."

How to apply
United States-based applicants ages 8-15 must create a short video and answer a few questions about their creative idea/business, such as how they'll use grant money to bring that idea to life and how their project can help make the world a better place. Applications are open through November 17, 2023, and will be accepted through online submission at BuildABrightFuture.com. Applications must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian.