Civic Ignition Workshop: 

Sparking Change, One Idea at a Time

Welcome to the Civic Ignition Workshop, a transformative cornerstone of BWB Chicago’s 10th Annual Winter Ball Fundraiser. This dynamic and inspiring workshop is where vision meets action and dreams become reality. Centered around the theme “Dark Matter/Inner Brilliance,” the workshop explores the unseen forces that connect us, the passion that drives us, and the radiant potential within each of us to illuminate the path toward a better world.

A Workshop With Deep Roots

The Civic Ignition Workshop traces its origins to an innovative idea: empowering communities to take ownership of change through collaborative decision-making and micro-grant funding. Inspired by the success of the Chicago Community Grant Program in 2012, this workshop model was designed to give participants not only a voice but a tangible opportunity to transform their ideas into action. Over the years, this dynamic approach has evolved through its adoption at leadership summits and community events worldwide, proving its ability to ignite meaningful local impact.

With a legacy rooted in fostering creativity, collaboration, and bold civic action, the Civic Ignition Workshop continues to grow as a beacon for changemakers everywhere. This rich history is a testament to its transformative power, uniting diverse voices and guiding them toward a common goal: building stronger, more vibrant communities.

What is the Civic Ignition Workshop?

The Civic Ignition Workshop is more than an event—it is a call to action. It is a platform for changemakers, innovators, and dreamers to come together, harness their ideas, and transform their visions into impactful community projects. Designed to spark creative solutions to pressing social challenges, this workshop encourages bold thinking and provides practical tools to turn inspiration into action.

This year, the workshop will serve as the primary pathway for submitting grant proposals for the funds raised during the Winter Ball. Participants will not only gain invaluable skills but also have the chance to pitch their ideas for a Civic Ignition Grant—a seed fund to launch or scale projects that create meaningful community impact.

Additionally, we invite individuals and groups to propose new or ongoing projects for approval by the Project Approval Committee, the body responsible for selecting initiatives that align with our mission to create sustainable, community-driven change. This is your opportunity to bring your passion project to life, backed by the resources and network needed to succeed.

What Can You Expect?

At the Civic Ignition Workshop, every moment is crafted to inspire, engage, and empower you. Here’s what makes this experience unforgettable:

1. The Art of Inspiration

Begin your journey with an electrifying keynote presentation from a visionary leader whose life work embodies the power of civic engagement. Through their story, you will discover the resilience, creativity, and courage it takes to effect lasting change—and you’ll be inspired to do the same.

2. A Space for Deep Reflection

What does your inner brilliance look like? How can your unique talents and passions address the unseen forces shaping our communities? Through guided exercises, you will explore these questions and uncover your personal pathway to impact. The Civic Ignition Workshop creates space for you to dream big while remaining deeply connected to the realities of the world around you.

3. Collaborative Idea Building

In thoughtfully curated breakout sessions, you will work alongside peers to identify shared challenges and opportunities. These sessions are designed to foster collaboration and spark innovative solutions, equipping you with actionable strategies and a network of support. Whether you come with a fully formed idea or the seed of a concept, these sessions will help you refine and elevate your vision.

4. Crafting Your Pitch

Learn how to communicate your vision with clarity and conviction. Experienced facilitators will guide you through the art of pitching, providing insights and feedback to help you confidently present your ideas. Whether you’re addressing a room of potential supporters or making the case for funding, this session will prepare you to shine.

5. The Power of the Civic Ignition Grant

At the heart of the workshop is the opportunity to vie for the Civic Ignition Grant. This seed fund, made possible by the generosity of Winter Ball supporters, is dedicated to launching transformative community initiatives. During the workshop, participants will pitch their ideas, and a panel of experts and community leaders will evaluate proposals based on their innovation, feasibility, and potential impact. This is your chance to secure funding and bring your vision to life.

6. Project Proposals for the Project Approval Committee

Have a bold idea or a community initiative you’re passionate about? Beyond competing for the Civic Ignition Grant, you can propose your project for approval by the Project Approval Committee. This committee will review proposals to ensure alignment with our mission and provide guidance on how to advance your initiative. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to expand an existing project, this is your moment to gain support and visibility.

7. Facilitated Consensus Decision-Making

Experience the power of consensus decision-making as you engage with fellow participants to evaluate and prioritize projects. This inclusive, collaborative approach ensures that funding decisions reflect the collective values and priorities of the group, fostering community ownership and deeper engagement.

8. Connections That Last a Lifetime

The workshop is not just about ideas; it’s about relationships. Throughout the day, you will meet fellow changemakers, mentors, and potential collaborators who share your passion for building a better future. These connections will sustain and support you long after the workshop ends.

What Skills Will You Gain?

Participants of the Civic Ignition Workshop will walk away equipped with an array of transformative skills, including:

• Vision Clarity: Learn to refine and articulate your big ideas into actionable and impactful plans.

• Strategic Planning: Gain tools to create detailed roadmaps for implementing community-focused projects.

• Pitch Development: Master the art of presenting your ideas with confidence and conviction, tailored to inspire action and support.

• Collaboration and Networking: Build the interpersonal skills necessary to form alliances, foster teamwork, and mobilize diverse stakeholders.

• Community Needs Assessment: Understand how to identify and prioritize the needs of your community to create targeted and sustainable solutions.

• Problem-Solving: Develop creative approaches to overcome obstacles and navigate challenges in project execution.

• Leadership and Influence: Strengthen your ability to lead initiatives, inspire others, and drive meaningful change.

• Consensus Building: Learn how to guide groups toward collective decision-making, ensuring alignment and shared ownership of outcomes.

These skills will empower you to transition from ideation to implementation, ensuring your projects make a tangible and lasting impact.

Why the Civic Ignition Workshop Matters

The challenges our communities face today require more than quick fixes—they demand bold, creative, and sustainable solutions. The Civic Ignition Workshop exists to cultivate these solutions by empowering individuals to tap into their inner brilliance and channel it into transformative action.

Every idea sparked in this workshop has the potential to change lives. Every connection made has the power to amplify impact. And every Civic Ignition Grant awarded represents a step toward a more equitable and vibrant community.

What Makes This Workshop Unique?

The Civic Ignition Workshop is more than a space for learning—it is a celebration of possibility and a catalyst for change. Here, you will find:

• A Supportive Environment: A space where your voice is valued, your ideas are nurtured, and your vision is celebrated.

• Actionable Guidance: Practical tools and strategies to turn your passion into measurable outcomes.

• A Clear Path Forward: A chance to compete for funding and propose projects that can turn your dreams into reality.

• Interactive and Inclusive Processes: Through consensus decision-making, participants will experience firsthand how to navigate differing opinions and prioritize initiatives effectively.

This is your opportunity to move from inspiration to action, from dreamer to doer, and from individual to changemaker.

How to Get Involved

To submit your project idea or grant proposal, please complete the form here: Civic Ignition Submission Form.

The Civic Ignition Workshop is open to anyone with a desire to make a difference. Whether you have a fully formed idea, are seeking approval for a new or ongoing project, or are simply looking for inspiration, this workshop will meet you where you are and help you take the next step.

This is more than a workshop—it is a movement. Together, we can create a brighter future by tapping into our collective brilliance. Will you join us?

Learn More and Reserve Your Spot