The Knight News Challenge on Data is open through 5 p.m. ET Sept. 30 for your ideas on how to make data work for individuals and communities. It’s your chance to share in more than $3 million.

With less than three days left, we want to provide you with some answers to commonly asked questions during our most recent virtual office hours. (You can also check out our FAQ and application tips and newschallenge.org)

What are you looking for in the “description” field?

This is your opportunity to explain what your project is, what you hope to achieve and why your project is innovative. There are no restrictions on what you can and cannot mention in this section. Just remember to be as clear and concise as possible. We are looking for applicants who can explain their projects in laymen’s terms.

What do you mean by “innovation”?

We believe that innovation can stem from any type of organization, whether you are a small startup, nonprofit, established organization, for-profit, individual, government entity or university. We are more interested in the idea itself at this stage. Here are some thoughts from Knight President Alberto Ibargüen on the work we do.

What level of technical detail is needed at this stage of the application process?

At this point, we are not requiring an extensive explanation of the technology behind your project. However, it is important to say why your project is innovative. Whether your technology is being used in an innovative way or if the technology itself is innovative, that is worth noting. In the next phase of our review, we ask semifinalists for more detail regarding the technology and intended users. 

Is the challenge open to international applicants?

Yes. The Knight News Challenge is open to organizations and individuals from anywhere. Currently, all applications must be submitted in English.

How do you feel about partnerships?

We’re fine with them. We understand and appreciate the advantage of collaborating across areas of expertise. The only caveat is that you should have a plan in place for how the grants funds will be distributed. There will need to be one organization that can receive grant funds.

What amounts of support are up for grabs?

All Knight News Challenge winners will share in a total of more than $3 million. Depending on your budget request and the number of finalists, you have the chance to win anywhere from $200,000 to $500,000.  In addition, a select number of finalists will be chosen for Knight Prototype Fund awards, which offer $35,000 in seed funding for projects to test their early assumptions.

Still have questions? Join us for our last virtual office hour scheduled for 1 p.m. ET Tuesday, Sept. 29. You can access the meetings online using ID 451 981 706 or participate via phone at 1-888-240-2560.

Follow #newschallenge on Twitter for updates, and check out Knight Blog for inspirations from our partners, academics, journalists and more. And don’t forget to apply by 5 p.m. ET Sept. 30 at newschallenge.org.

Knight Foundation is collaborating on the Knight News Challenge on Data with Data & Society and Open Society Foundations. The challenge asks the question: How might we make data work for individuals and communities? Winners will share in $3 million. Apply at newschallenge.org.

Nina Zenni is a media innovation associate at Knight Foundation. Email her at [email protected].