The Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation announces the 2023–2024 cycle of the GSAPP Incubator Prize. As a platform for entrepreneurship and expanded modes of practice, the Prize supports projects led by GSAPP alumni that bridge critical discourse with active practice and engagement. The Prize encourages a wide range of alumni-led initiatives that critically redefine community engagement and participation.

Applicants must demonstrate a knowledge of the community they aim to engage with through the proposed project, and the application will ask about community partnerships as an integral aspect of the project. These connections and collaborations test the viability of execution and indicate an investment in meaningful and lasting outcomes.

In 2023, Columbia GSAPP will award ten Prizes of $10,000 per selected projects to individuals or teams of no more than two members. Projects must be led by GSAPP alumni from across the school’s programs who graduated between 2009 and 2023. Recipients will develop their work independently and can be based internationally. Operating within the broader ecosystem of the School’s commitment to new forms of design research and practice, GSAPP Incubator Prize recipients will present their work at the School and other opportunities as they arise throughout the academic year.

Application and Selection Process

• The online application form is now available, and all applications must be submitted through this form.
• Submissions will be accepted between August 25, 2023 and September 30, 2023.
• A jury composed of GSAPP faculty and alumni will review proposals and recipients will be notified in November 2023.

Columbia GSAPP will consider proposals from individuals who meet the below criteria:

• You received a Masters or Doctorate degree from Columbia GSAPP between 2009 and 2023.
  
• Your proposal requests support for a new initiative, or a new stage of an existing initiative that you have ownership over.
  
• Your proposal must demonstrate relevant community partnerships.
  
• Individuals or teams of two may apply under a single proposal.
  
• Recipients must meet eligibility requirements to receive payment from Columbia University.
  

• The online application form is now available, and all applications must be submitted through this form.
• Submissions will be accepted between August 25, 2023 and September 30, 2023.
• A jury composed of GSAPP faculty and alumni will review proposals and recipients will be notified in September 2023.
  

Please contact gsappalumni@columbia.edu with any questions.

In accordance with University and Federal policy, prizes and awards are taxable. Recipients are responsible for reporting taxable payments and for remitting any tax due with their personal income tax return. U.S. withholding tax may apply to foreign recipients.