Education fund launches cash prize contest

PORTLAND — Want to win $500 for your hot idea or innovative project that benefits Maine youth? The Maine League of Young Voters Education Fund wants to invest in these brilliant plans by inviting anyone age 16-35 to participate in the Launch ME Contest.

The League is dedicated to finding the next generation of movers and shakers that will help solve these issues and will host a community event to celebrate young leaders and help raise funds for their projects. The League of Young Voters Education Fund is accepting applications through its website at YoungVoter.Org/Maine/Launch-ME. Deadline is Thursday, March 15.

Here's what the contest can do:

1) All contestants will get publicity for their project on the website, YoungVoter.Org/Maine.

2) At the end of March, the public will vote for their favorite projects on-line and determine seven finalists. The finalists will be invited to a premiere fundraising party on April 6 in Portland (lodging and travel support included).

3) At the party, attendees will be encouraged to donate $10 to their favorite projects - and finalists walk home with all the money that they raise.

4) Plus, attendees will rank choice vote their favorite projects and the winner will receive an additional $500 toward their work.

Contest Rules:

Must be between the ages of 16-35, reside in the state of Maine and project must benefit ME youth

Voting will take place by the public on-line and at the fundraiser event on whatever criteria they choose. The sky is the limit and the ME League of Young Voters Education Fund encourages applicants to reach for it.