WASHINGTON, D.C. -- PILOT, NAB’s technology innovation initiative, is accepting submissions for the third annual PILOT Innovation Challenge. The program recognizes creative ideas that leverage technological advances in the production, distribution and display of engaging content. The program also provides support to the winners for development.
This year’s challenge question is “What is an innovative way broadcasters and other local media could serve communities?”
Applicants must submit their original idea at www.nabpilot.org/challenge by October 19. Additional judging criteria and information are available here.
Submissions are judged by a diverse panel of experts from the broadcast, venture capital, media and tech industries. Twelve semifinalists will be selected by the end of November. A smaller panel of judges will select the top six finalists. Winners will be chosen by participants at the NAB Futures conference, held January 27-29 in Seattle.
Thanks in part to a grant from Knight Foundation, the top six entries will be awarded cash prizes, with one prize each in the amounts of $30,000, $25,000 and $20,000 and three prizes in the amount of $15,000. Winners will also receive relevant mentorship, access to key broadcast executives and unmatched exposure at industry events, like the annual NAB Show, held April 6-11 in Las Vegas.
“The PILOT Innovation Challenge continues to foster ideas that accelerate local news innovation in the digital age,” said PILOT Executive Director John Clark. “We look forward to again providing an opportunity to not only drive industry innovation but also connect consumers with broadcast media in new ways.”
The Innovation Challenge is one in a series of PILOT initiatives that each support a facet of the full innovation cycle, including the ideation, validation and incubation of media and technology-focused ideas. Additional programs include Futures Park, Pitch Prize, SPROCKIT, and the recently announced technology and internship grants.
Additional information about PILOT is available here.
About PILOT
PILOT is a coalition of innovators, educators and advocates dedicated to advancing broadcast technology and cultivating new media opportunities. PILOT propels broadcast television and radio into the future. It provides a platform for innovation, an engine for incubation, a venue for testing new technologies and a forum for broadcaster education. Learn more at www.nabpilot.org.
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.