With a staggering $100 million at stake, the foundation aims to support proposals that offer feasible and evidence-based solutions with the potential for deep impact.

Chris Cardona, the managing director of Discovery, Exploration, and Programs at the foundation, emphasized that the competition remains open-ended and global in nature, without any predefined specific challenges. Instead, the MacArthur Foundation invites proposals from all fields and locations that can address critical social issues and demonstrate measurable success.

"We are seeking game-changing ideas that have the potential to create positive change on a global scale," Cardona explained. The foundation is particularly interested in projects that not only propose innovative approaches but also have a clear plan for effectively measuring their impact.

The 100&Change competition has gained significant recognition over the years. The finalists for this third round are set to be announced in the spring of 2025. Every round attracts a diverse range of proposals, offering a chance for organizations and individuals to make a substantial difference in addressing major global challenges.

The MacArthur Foundation, known for its commitment to supporting various initiatives, including through its partnership with NPR, aims to encourage creative problem-solving and provide financial resources to implement transformative ideas. By empowering changemakers, the foundation hopes to amplify their influence and progress in creating sustainable solutions.

As the world faces numerous complex issues, the MacArthur Foundation's $100 million grant competition offers a unique opportunity to fuel impactful projects that can address critical social challenges. With the launch of the third round, the foundation continues its mission to foster innovation and support initiatives with the potential to change the world for the better.