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Open Positions as of April 21, 2008:

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Vice President, Development

REPORTS TO: President
DURATION: Regular, Full-Time
LOCATION: Santa Monica, CA

POSITION DELIVERY POINTS
Reporting to the President, the Vice President will positively influence the X PRIZE Foundation’s future by:

  • Raising awareness of the X PRIZE Foundation, X PRIZE competitions and X PRIZE competitors among individual donors and foundations;
  • Building unrestricted and restricted funding for X PRIZE, its competitions, programs and events through individual giving campaigns, including major gift, planned giving, capital and other activities;
  • Designing innovative fundraising mechanisms that could include event-based events, memberships, mass-outreach campaigns, and other unique ways to engage individual donors; developing philanthropic grant proposals; and by him or herself engaging in direct solicitations to individual, philanthropic and other donors;
  • Broadening the X Prize Foundation’s appeal amongst nonprofit and government donors, including foundations, charitable trusts, non-governmental and governmental organizations;
  • Providing appropriate day-to-day oversight of development activities;
  • Supporting the President of the X PRIZE Foundation, as well as the Founder as they represent the Foundation to various constituencies.

The Vice President of Development will lead all individual and foundation fundraising efforts to meet the objectives of the X PRIZE Foundation, and will view all the organization’s activities, prizes, events, contacts and relationships as opportunities to promote the X PRIZE Foundation. The immediate development priorities of the development group is to conclude the $50M Joint the Revolution Campaign to fund annual operations, and drive the 5 year $300M Prize Purse Campaign.

The development team currently consists of the Vice President and two professionals. It is anticipated that the team will sustainably expand to five people working in close collaboration with the marketing, corporate sponsorship and prize teams. While there is certainly a managerial responsibility intrinsic to the work, it is anticipated that the Vice President will be a hands on and deeply involved fundraiser who will cultivate close relationships with major individual donors. The Vice President, President, Founder and Board members of X PRIZE will all be involved in fundraising efforts for the Foundation. This is a highly collaborative, roll-up-your-sleeves environment that focuses on results achieved through initiative, open communication and teamwork. It will be important that the Vice President engages with colleagues and other departments on that basis.

Key factors in success of the Vice President for Development will be the ability to raise public awareness of the X PRIZE Foundation in collaboration with the marketing and communications group, and to develop effective outreach and campaign strategies that connect with individual, foundation and government targets. As part of that effort, the Vice President will utilize an appropriate fundraising support infrastructure so that the organization can respond quickly, effectively, creatively and contextually to financial requirements and to donor interests and opportunities. Capture and reuse of donor information will be important to the overall success of the fundraising effort.

The Vice President of Development’s immediate priorities are to:

  • Thoroughly understand the X PRIZE Foundation – its history, culture, traditions, programs, personalities, constituencies, and governance structure; understand its base of financial support and the short- and long-term funding requirements of all segments of the organization; master knowledge of the nature, scope and impact of X PRIZE competitions and programs, as well as their funding requirements;
  • Immediately assess the “state of play” of funding within the X PRIZE Foundation, including pending individual and foundation and government giving opportunities and provide support to pending initiatives where appropriate; evaluate current processes and systems that support fundraising initiatives, donor recognition, and campaign management systems, and identify areas of improvement;
  • In collaboration with the President and the marketing and communications group, develop a fundraising plan for the X PRIZE Foundation; set targets for individual, foundation and government fundraising efforts; identify staff and board members who will be actively involved in fundraising and define the roles of each; assign targets to individuals and collaborate with them to help the organization reach its fundraising goals;
  • Develop strong relationships with, and secure the trust and confidence of, the President, key donors, board members, staff, fundraising and marketing consultants, and others critical to individual and institutional fundraising efforts;
  • Establish clear standards for stewardship, donor recognition, and institutional sponsorship, with particular emphasis on the use of logos, brands, naming and other recognition opportunities; ensure successful adherence to grant and restricting giving agreements.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES Counted among the responsibilities of the Vice President for Development will be to:

  • Recruit, hire and manage a small team of development professionals and consultants with appropriate communications, individual giving and institutional giving skills and experiences; establish work plans, performance objectives, and goals for each team member and regularly review performance, professional development and training to achieve those goals;
  • In collaboration with the President, develop a systematic communications and fundraising plan that addresses the needs and concerns of each prospective donor group;
  • Aggressively implement a structured program for fostering strong relationships between targeted institutions and constituencies and the X PRIZE Foundation, involving where appropriate the President, Founders, X PRIZE personnel and members of the Board;
  • Develop materials to tell the X PRIZE story to major categories of donors and individual prospects, ensuring that these materials are distributed in a targeted, regular, and timely fashion;
  • Collaborate with the President and financial staff of the Foundation in the preparation of annual operating plans and budgets with specific analysis of general funding needs (for staff, marketing activities, operating infrastructure), and restricted giving opportunities (to fund events, capital projects, prizes, etc.); incorporate fundraising targets into the budget of the organization;
  • Develop and implement basic guidelines for sponsorship and that will preserve the integrity of the X PRIZE brand and X PRIZE competitions;
  • Cultivate donors and relationships with foundation decision makers; engage in direct solicitations.

QUALIFICATIONS
Candidates should have the following type of experience and qualifications:

  • Significant nonprofit fundraising, business sales, marketing or equivalent experience in an organization that has a reputation for strategic thinking, organizational excellence, and aggressive action;
  • A record of personal success in raising money through major gifts from individuals, businesses, foundations, corporations and the public sector; broad-based knowledge of various development campaign activities including: direct mail, proposal and grant development, planned giving, event planning and management, direct solicitations, leveraging fund-raising databases and support systems for donor segmentation, research and volunteer management;
  • A broad knowledge of brand marketing, advertising and public relations with specific experience in structuring sponsorships; demonstrated success with establishing stewardship and donor recognition programs;
  • A track record as an exceptional communicator, in writing as well as verbally; adept at writing proposals, solicitation letters, donor correspondence, and other kinds of material for publication; Demonstrated management skills in motivating, directing and managing staff and consultants, and in coordinating and supporting the fundraising activities of others.

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS The successful candidate should be:

  • A mission-driven individual with a belief in and commitment to the mission of the X PRIZE Foundation to develop revolutionary innovative responses to the challenges of our time; a strong interest in, and passion for, technology, science, business, competition and innovation;
  • A good listener and strategist; comfortable receiving input from many sources, and able to analyze and formulate disparate information into a sound, well-organized plan; Intrepid yet tactful; determined yet respectful of other’s concerns; someone with the flexibility and creativity needed to find alternative ways to reach funding objectives when barriers arise; a skilled negotiator who does not drive themselves or others into a corner;
  • A charismatic communicator, able to build enthusiasm for the X PRIZE Foundation, its competitions, and for its innovative approach to pushing beyond barriers to human achievement; exceptional verbal and written communication skills;
  • A hard worker with a high energy level; a “doer” with a willingness to work hands-on in developing and executing a variety of development and advancement activities;
  • Emotionally mature with a very good sense of humor and the flexibility and sensitivity to work with diverse personalities and situations.

X PRIZE and You
This position is currently located one block from the bustling Santa Monica Promenade, minutes from the 10 and 405 freeways, as well as the ocean. We offer a full range of employment benefits including medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, LIFE/AD&D, and an employee assistant program all paid in full by the organization for our regular full-time employees.
The X PRIZE Foundation was established in 1995, attracting leaders in the fields of Life Sciences (Genomics, Medicine, etc), Space, Energy, Environment, Social Welfare, Automotive Technology and more. This position is for someone who will be dedicated to making an impact here at the X PRIZE Foundation and ultimately in the world at large. We are a small and rapidly growing organization, who will value your ideas and advice and are looking for people who will thrive in our fast paced, small group environment.

X PRIZE CULTURE
Our goals are as lofty as they come; where only through entrepreneurial persistence and visionary thinking are solutions to seemingly insurmountable social, technological and environmental issues made possible.

While we externally strive to create a better world, we are internally working to build a culture that supports the kind of passionate, forward thinking people we need to help deliver radical breakthrough solutions to today's most critical and meaningful challenges. To this end, we are working together to create an environment that fosters learning and growth and encourages creativity, transparency, and diversity.

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION offers a comprehensive compensation package to our employee's, which includes the following benefits:
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- vision Insurance
- LIFE Insurance
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Domestic Partner Benefit Coverage
- Year End Discretionary Bonus Program
- Generous Paid Vacation Leave
- Generous Paid Time Off Leave
- 10 Paid Holidays
The X PRIZE FOUNDATION is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate in employment. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.

Please note: Though submitting a resume to the X PRIZE FOUNDATION implies that you are interested in a position(s), it does not imply that you are an applicant. Furthermore, you are not considered an applicant until you have been contacted directly by a Human Resources representative requesting that you begin the designated application process, which may involve phone and/or in-person interview(s), job-related testing, and background checking.

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Senior Network Administrator

REPORTS TO: Senior Director, Human & Corporate Shared Services
DURATION: Regular, Full-Time
LOCATION: Santa Monica, CA

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
More than 50% of your time will be spent Managing the XPF IT Network and Supporting Users with IT issues ranging from desktop to software and web applications technology support. The person in this position absolutely must have experience with Windows operating systems – 2003, 2000, and XP. Other technologies supported by this position include but may not be limited to:

  • HP Proliant Servers
  • Windows 2003 Active Directory
  • Microsoft Internet Authentication Service
  • Hosted Exchange 2003
  • Retrospect backup
  • Open Source MediaWiki
  • Trend Micro SMB
  • Cisco 2811
  • Catalyst 2960
  • Pix 501
  • Access points
  • Lenovo ThinkCenter and ThinkPads

Work assignments will be a combination of self-generated projects reflecting the individual’s strategic choices that are aligned with their primary accountabilities and the teams overall objectives, as well as assignments provided by the VP of Operations.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 3+ years Networking experience in a venture backed, start-up environment (preferred)
  • 4+ years administering Windows 2003 Active Directory is required
  • 3+ years administering Exchange 2003 is critical
  • 2+ years networking skills required with the ability to administer Cisco routers and VPN
  • Knowledge of Office Suite applications is required
  • Basic knowledge of Ethernet wiring is a plus
  • Good knowledge of VoIP and Potts phone systems a plus (Nortel)
  • System administration experience is preferred
  • Must work well in team environments
  • Have significant experience supporting remote telecommuter environment
  • Must possess excellent communication and customer service skills
  • Bachelor degree with concentration in CIS is preferred but not required
  • MCSE Certification is a Big Plus

X PRIZE and You
This position is currently located one block from the bustling Santa Monica Promenade, minutes from the 10 and 405 freeways, as well as the ocean. We offer a full range of employment benefits including medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, LIFE/AD&D, and an employee assistant program all paid in full by the organization for our regular full-time employees.
The X PRIZE Foundation was established in 1995, attracting leaders in the fields of Life Sciences (Genomics, Medicine, etc), Space, Energy, Environment, Social Welfare, Automotive Technology and more. This position is for someone who will be dedicated to making an impact here at the X PRIZE Foundation and ultimately in the world at large. We are a small and rapidly growing organization, who will value your ideas and advice and are looking for people who will thrive in our fast paced, small group environment.

X PRIZE CULTURE
Our goals are as lofty as they come; where only through entrepreneurial persistence and visionary thinking are solutions to seemingly insurmountable social, technological and environmental issues made possible.

While we externally strive to create a better world, we are internally working to build a culture that supports the kind of passionate, forward thinking people we need to help deliver radical breakthrough solutions to today's most critical and meaningful challenges. To this end, we are working together to create an environment that fosters learning and growth and encourages creativity, transparency, and diversity.

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION offers a comprehensive compensation package to our employee's, which includes the following benefits:
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- vision Insurance
- LIFE Insurance
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Domestic Partner Benefit Coverage
- Year End Discretionary Bonus Program
- Generous Paid Vacation Leave
- Generous Paid Time Off Leave
- 10 Paid Holidays
The X PRIZE FOUNDATION is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate in employment. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.

Please note: Though submitting a resume to the X PRIZE FOUNDATION implies that you are interested in a position(s), it does not imply that you are an applicant. Furthermore, you are not considered an applicant until you have been contacted directly by a Human Resources representative requesting that you begin the designated application process, which may involve phone and/or in-person interview(s), job-related testing, and background checking.

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Administrative Assistant, Life Sciences

REPORTS TO: Executive Director, Life Sciences
DURATION: Regular, Full-Time
LOCATION: Santa Monica, CA

LIfe Sciences Vertical
The Life Sciences department develops and oversees prizes related to human health and wellbeing. The first prize launched under this vertical was the Archon X PRIZE for Genomics, to be awarded to the first team to achieve cheap and fast sequencing of the human genome. We are in the process of launching a series of three additional prizes covering cancer prevention, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Additional prizes in development focus on ageing well and the treatment of obesity. Dr. Geesaman, who heads this vertical, has extensive past experience as a physician, scientist, entrepreneur, and venture capitalist.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Managing schedules, travel, and calls for two executives
  • Coordinating both internal and external meetings with VIPs
  • Answer telephones and transfer to appropriate staff member
  • Meet and greet clients and visitors
  • Perform general clerical duties to include but not limited to: photocopying, faxing, mailing, and filing
  • Maintain hard copy and electronic filing system
  • Sign for and distribute UPS/Fed Ex/Airborne packages
  • Research, price, and purchase office furniture and supplies
  • Setup and coordinate meetings and conferences
  • Support staff in assigned project based work
  • Manage expense reports
  • Setup accommodation and entertainment arrangements for visitors

Work assignments will be a combination of self-generated projects reflecting the individual’s strategic choices that are aligned with their primary accountabilities and the teams overall objectives, as well as specific assignments. QUALIFICATIONS

  • At least three years experience working as an administrative assistant in the last 10 years
  • At least two years of college (Associate Bachelor’s degree or better)
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Excel and Project desired
  • Basic internet related skills such as online ordering, searches, and simple data collection
  • Some background in healthcare and biology desired
  • Previous experience working in non-profit setting desired

X PRIZE and You
This position is currently located one block from the bustling Santa Monica Promenade, minutes from the 10 and 405 freeways, as well as the ocean. We offer a full range of employment benefits including medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, LIFE/AD&D, and an employee assistant program all paid in full by the organization for our regular full-time employees.
The X PRIZE Foundation was established in 1995, attracting leaders in the fields of Life Sciences (Genomics, Medicine, etc), Space, Energy, Environment, Social Welfare, Automotive Technology and more. This position is for someone who will be dedicated to making an impact here at the X PRIZE Foundation and ultimately in the world at large. We are a small and rapidly growing organization, who will value your ideas and advice and are looking for people who will thrive in our fast paced, small group environment.

X PRIZE CULTURE
Our goals are as lofty as they come; where only through entrepreneurial persistence and visionary thinking are solutions to seemingly insurmountable social, technological and environmental issues made possible.

While we externally strive to create a better world, we are internally working to build a culture that supports the kind of passionate, forward thinking people we need to help deliver radical breakthrough solutions to today's most critical and meaningful challenges. To this end, we are working together to create an environment that fosters learning and growth and encourages creativity, transparency, and diversity.

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION offers a comprehensive compensation package to our employee's, which includes the following benefits:
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- vision Insurance
- LIFE Insurance
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Domestic Partner Benefit Coverage
- Year End Discretionary Bonus Program
- Generous Paid Vacation Leave
- Generous Paid Time Off Leave
- 10 Paid Holidays
The X PRIZE FOUNDATION is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate in employment. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.

Please note: Though submitting a resume to the X PRIZE FOUNDATION implies that you are interested in a position(s), it does not imply that you are an applicant. Furthermore, you are not considered an applicant until you have been contacted directly by a Human Resources representative requesting that you begin the designated application process, which may involve phone and/or in-person interview(s), job-related testing, and background checking.

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Coordinator, PRIZE Development

REPORTS TO: Senior Director, Prize Development
DURATION: Regular, Full-Time
LOCATION: Santa Monica, CA

PRIZE DEVELOPMENT TEAM
The Prize Development Department is responsible for designing a new generation of prizes. We are committed to inspiring innovative breakthroughs in cancer research, healthcare reform, global entrepreneurship, education, deep sea and space exploration, renewable energy technologies and many other socially responsible endeavors. By working with highly renowned experts across many diverse fields, the Department has achieved a level of credibility that attracts many influential and creative partners. The core staff is dedicated to generating and screening a regular flow of prize ideas, refining rules and working closely with subject matter experts in fields related to prize initiatives.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
More than 50% of your time will be spent both researching prize concepts across multiple disciplines and developing a set of standardized processes for the management of intellectual property as it relates to Prize Development. The result of this work will be the identification and organization of predictable and repeatable stages in the prize development process, from ideation through fully funded prizes.
You will also have key responsibilities in the following areas:

  • Coordinate the development of prize concepts in various stages of development from ideation to launch; this includes all research, planning and scheduling;
  • Ongoing project management of prizes in various stages of development using a project management tool such as MS Project;
  • Work cross departmentally to support all reporting requirements to donors, prize development finance and cultivation events;
  • Manage logistics for all advisory board meetings
  • Research and document a wide assortment of topics including Life Sciences, Energy and Environment, Global Entrepreneurship, Global Poverty, etc;
  • Manage and maintain documentation on prize concepts, processes and reporting.

Work assignments will be a combination of self-generated projects, reflecting the individual’s strategic choices that are aligned with their primary accountabilities and the teams overall objectives, as well as assignments provided by the Director of Prize Development.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Strong research and writing skills. Ability to produce business quality documents under tight deadlines (Will be tested in this area);
  • 2+ years project management experience using project management software such as MS Project;
  • Strong college level/professional communication skills. Confidence inspiring oral and written capabilities;
  • Advanced analytic skills. Ability to summarize large amounts of data into meaningful reports, including the use of visual aids such as charts, graphs, & diagrams;
  • Excellent people skills. Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with peers, management and highly influential people inside and outside the organization;
  • Someone with both a technical and business background is highly preferred.

X PRIZE and You
This position is currently located one block from the bustling Santa Monica Promenade, minutes from the 10 and 405 freeways, as well as the ocean. We offer a full range of employment benefits including medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, LIFE/AD&D, and an employee assistant program all paid in full by the organization for our regular full-time employees.
The X PRIZE Foundation was established in 1995, attracting leaders in the fields of Life Sciences (Genomics, Medicine, etc), Space, Energy, Environment, Social Welfare, Automotive Technology and more. This position is for someone who will be dedicated to making an impact here at the X PRIZE Foundation and ultimately in the world at large. We are a small and rapidly growing organization, who will value your ideas and advice and are looking for people who will thrive in our fast paced, small group environment.

X PRIZE CULTURE
Our goals are as lofty as they come; where only through entrepreneurial persistence and visionary thinking are solutions to seemingly insurmountable social, technological and environmental issues made possible.

While we externally strive to create a better world, we are internally working to build a culture that supports the kind of passionate, forward thinking people we need to help deliver radical breakthrough solutions to today's most critical and meaningful challenges. To this end, we are working together to create an environment that fosters learning and growth and encourages creativity, transparency, and diversity.

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION offers a comprehensive compensation package to our employee's, which includes the following benefits:
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- vision Insurance
- LIFE Insurance
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Domestic Partner Benefit Coverage
- Year End Discretionary Bonus Program
- Generous Paid Vacation Leave
- Generous Paid Time Off Leave
- 10 Paid Holidays
The X PRIZE FOUNDATION is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate in employment. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.

Please note: Though submitting a resume to the X PRIZE FOUNDATION implies that you are interested in a position(s), it does not imply that you are an applicant. Furthermore, you are not considered an applicant until you have been contacted directly by a Human Resources representative requesting that you begin the designated application process, which may involve phone and/or in-person interview(s), job-related testing, and background checking.

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Director of Team Development and Relations, Progressive Automotive X PRIZE

DEPARTMENT:Progressive Automotive PRIZE - Contract Fulfillment
REPORTS TO:Senior Director
DURATION:Regular, Full-Time
LOCATION:Santa Monica, CA

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Progressive Automotive X PRIZE team is seeking a Director of Team Development and Relations to identify, attract and recruit a wide and qualified variety of entrants to the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE Competition. You will own the strategy and tactics for ensuring the prize has as many qualified entrants as possible while building lasting relationships and lines of communication with these organizations. You will use your deep automotive industry experience, your extensive network of automotive industry contacts, and your knowledge of efficient vehicle technology and alternative fuels to succeed in this role. Sales and business development experience is mandatory as you develop a compelling marketing package to attract and retain entrants into the competition. You will be the voice and advocate for these entrants in all management-level decisions. A secondary responsibility will be the development of relationships, services, tools and contacts that help level the playing field for all entrants and increase the likelihood that these entrants will meet the goals of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE. Additionally, you will have extensive input into the competition guidelines, rules, master team agreements, venue agreements and judging panels and processes. You must be a driven self-starter with a deep belief in the mission of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE. You will be a key member of the senior management of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE, and must share our belief in teamwork and open communication.

  • Identify top companies and organizations that would be ideal entrants into the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE Competition
  • Create compelling marketing packages and programs to attract entrants into the prize
  • Development and implementation of strategy and tactics for recruiting and maintaining positive and productive relationships with entrants
  • Travel to and leadership of meetings and events with entrants and potential entrants
  • Ownership of team relations, outreach and communication strategy, including newsletters, web conferences, in-person summits, etc.
  • Along with Executive Director and Sr. Director of Operations, development and implementation of strategy to build a marketplace of relationships with sponsors, suppliers, service providers, investors and other beneficial relationships that level the playing field for entrants into the prize
  • Along with Sr. Director of Technology and Government Relations, development of effective and fair judging procedures and panels
  • Deep input into competition guidelines & rules as well as the development of a Master Team Agreement
  • Input into race design and management
  • Management & oversight of full-time Manager of Team Relations
  • Act as voice and advocate for the competition’s entrants in all Progressive Automotive X PRIZE strategy and executive-level decisions
  • Primary metric for success will be the quantity and, more importantly, quality of entrants into the competition throughout the life of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Deep knowledge of automotive industry and, more specifically, efficient vehicle development, technologies and development Wide network of contacts within large auto manufacturers, small automotive startups, automotive suppliers, automotive research firms, automotive industry analysts, environmental organizations and automotive & environmental related government agencies
  • Insight into automotive industry and environment/alternative fuel trends and forecasts
  • Minimum 10 years of automotive industry experience
  • Minimum 5 years of sales and/or business development experience
  • Ability to create compelling sales and marketing collateral packages
  • Advanced knowledge of MS Outlook, MS Exchange and MS Office Suite, especially MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint
  • Clear, precise and concise written and verbal communication skills (writing samples will be requested)
  • Flexibility to grow with the organization and assume new and expanded responsibilities
  • BS or BA in a related business or engineering field Ability to quickly learn about and use new software, technology and processes

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • MBA or advanced business, engineering or environmental degree
  • Automotive Racing background
  • Experience with automotive-related “green” awards or efficient vehicle demonstrations
  • Experience using Salesforce or other similar contact & sales management tool/program
  • Technology “early-adopter” tendency

GENERAL ABILITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS

  • Self-starter who takes the initiative to start projects, work unsupervised, complete tasks independently, solve roadblocks, and address issues before they become problems
  • Collaborative approach; appreciation and enjoyment of working as part of a team
  • Exceptional organizational abilities; aggressive attention to detail
  • Rigorous time management
  • Ability to thrive and think creatively and calmly in highly fluid situations and under intense schedules, pressure & deadlines
  • Prioritization skills and ability to multi-task
  • Personable, professional and calm demeanor
  • Patience and flexibility
  • Incredible interpersonal skills and can-do attitude
  • Sense of humor and work-life balance
  • Belief that a small group of motivated individuals can truly change the world for the better

X PRIZE and You
This position is currently located one block from the bustling Santa Monica Promenade, minutes from the 10 and 405 freeways, as well as the ocean. We offer a full range of employment benefits including medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, LIFE/AD&D all paid in full by the organization for our regular full-time employees.

The X PRIZE Foundation was established in 1996, attracting leaders in the fields of Life Sciences (Genomics, Healthcare, etc), Space, Energy, Environment, Global Development, Automotive Technology and more. This position is for someone who will be dedicated to making an impact here at the X PRIZE Foundation and ultimately in the world at large. We are a small and rapidly growing organization, who will value your ideas and advice and are looking for people who will thrive in our fast paced, innovative, small group environment.

X PRIZE CULTURE
Our goals are as lofty as they come; where only through entrepreneurial persistence and visionary thinking are solutions to seemingly insurmountable social, technological and environmental issues made possible.

While we externally strive to create a better world, we are internally working to build a culture that supports the kind of passionate, forward thinking people we need to help deliver radical breakthrough solutions to today's most critical and meaningful challenges. To this end, we are working together to create an environment that fosters learning and growth and encourages creativity, transparency, and diversity.

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION offers a comprehensive compensation package to our employee's, which includes the following benefits:


- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- LIFE Insurance
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Domestic Partner Benefit Coverage
- Year End Discretionary Bonus Program
- Generous Paid Vacation Leave
- Generous Paid Time Off Leave
- 10 Paid Holidays

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate in employment. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.

Please note: Though submitting a resume to the X PRIZE FOUNDATION implies that you are interested in a position(s), it does not imply that you are an applicant. Furthermore, you are not considered an applicant until you have been contacted directly by a Human Resources representative requesting that you begin the designated application process, which may involve phone and/or in-person interview(s), job-related testing, and background checking.

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Executive Assistant, Progressive Automotive X PRIZE

REPORTS TO: Senior Director, Progressive Automotive X PRIZE
DURATION: Regular, Full-Time
LOCATION: Santa Monica, CA


Progressive Automotive X PRIZE
The goal of the Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE is to inspire a new generation of viable, super fuel-efficient vehicles that help break our addiction to oil and stem the effects of climate change. Ten million dollars in prizes will be awarded to the teams that win a stage race for clean, production-capable vehicles that exceed 100 MPGe.

The Progressive Automotive X PRIZE will place a major focus on affordability, safety, and the environment. It is about developing real, production-capable cars that consumers want to buy, not science projects or concept cars. This progress is needed because today’s oil consumption is unsustainable and because automotive emissions significantly contribute to global warming and climate change.

Our team shares a strong passion for achieving the goals of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE. While we are a small, geographically diverse group of four capable mavericks (soon to be eight!), we cannot achieve our goals without the incredible relationships and support we currently have and continue to build. We strive to be trustworthy, respectful, informed, and balanced in all that we do.

For more information about the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE, please visit www.progressiveautoxprize.org

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Progressive Automotive X PRIZE team is seeking an Executive Assistant to support the work of the prize’s management team. You will be responsible for assisting with calendar management, scheduling, travel arrangements, correspondence, and various high-level projects. You are expected to be able to serve as the management team’s administrator, intuitively translating incoming requests and indirect requirements into achievable goals, and managing the process through which these objectives are met in a timely manner and with high performance standards. You must be able to follow the team’s direction and lead, handle unseen developments, and resolve potential conflicts or problems. The ideal candidate will have extensive past experience supporting executive-level staff, will thrive both independently and as part of a dynamic team, and will think of this position as an exciting and motivating career.

  • All administrative support for the management team of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE (management team consists of one Executive Director and two Senior Directors based in Washington, DC and Southern California)
  • Completion of expense reports
  • Calendar scheduling
  • Creation and maintenance of correspondence, presentations and reports
  • Meeting, small event and presentation arrangements
  • Assistance in responding to incoming requests and questions from the public via the
  • Progressive Automotive X PRIZE
  • Maintenance of contacts database
  • Processing and routing of incoming phone calls, correspondence, mail, deliveries, invoices, etc.
  • Organization and upkeep of prize documents, contracts and files (electronic and hard copy)

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Excellent administrative and organizational skills, with a top-notch eye for detail
  • A minimum of 3 years Executive Assistant experience in a medium to large company or non-profit foundation
  • Capable of interacting with all levels of business people and philanthropists
  • Advanced knowledge of MS Outlook, MS Exchange, and MS Office Suite, especially MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint
  • Clear, precise and concise written and verbal communication skills (writing samples will be requested)
  • Flexibility to grow with the organization and assume new and expanded responsibilities
  • BS or BA in a related business field
  • Ability to quickly learn about and use new software, technology and processes

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Knowledge of and experience in corporate and private philanthropy and/or non-profit foundations
  • Interest in cars and/or environmental issues
  • Event management experience
  • Experience using Salesforce or other similar contact management tools
  • Knowledge of MS Visio, Adobe Acrobat Professional, Adobe Creative Suite, Adobe Connect
  • Experience using a website content management system or knowledge of HTML a plus

GENERAL ABILITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS

  • Personable, professional and calm demeanor
  • Patience and flexibility
  • Incredible interpersonal skills and can-do attitude
  • Sense of humor and work-life balance
  • Belief that a small group of motivated individuals can truly change the world for the better

X PRIZE and You
This position is currently located one block from the bustling Santa Monica Promenade, minutes from the 10 and 405 freeways, as well as the ocean. We offer a full range of employment benefits including medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, LIFE/AD&D, and an employee assistant program all paid in full by the organization for our regular full-time employees.
The X PRIZE Foundation was established in 1995, attracting leaders in the fields of Life Sciences (Genomics, Medicine, etc), Space, Energy, Environment, Social Welfare, Automotive Technology and more. This position is for someone who will be dedicated to making an impact here at the X PRIZE Foundation and ultimately in the world at large. We are a small and rapidly growing organization, who will value your ideas and advice and are looking for people who will thrive in our fast paced, small group environment.

X PRIZE CULTURE
Our goals are as lofty as they come; where only through entrepreneurial persistence and visionary thinking are solutions to seemingly insurmountable social, technological and environmental issues made possible.

While we externally strive to create a better world, we are internally working to build a culture that supports the kind of passionate, forward thinking people we need to help deliver radical breakthrough solutions to today's most critical and meaningful challenges. To this end, we are working together to create an environment that fosters learning and growth and encourages creativity, transparency, and diversity.

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION offers a comprehensive compensation package to our employee's, which includes the following benefits:
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- vision Insurance
- LIFE Insurance
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Domestic Partner Benefit Coverage
- Year End Discretionary Bonus Program
- Generous Paid Vacation Leave
- Generous Paid Time Off Leave
- 10 Paid Holidays
The X PRIZE FOUNDATION is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate in employment. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.

Please note: Though submitting a resume to the X PRIZE FOUNDATION implies that you are interested in a position(s), it does not imply that you are an applicant. Furthermore, you are not considered an applicant until you have been contacted directly by a Human Resources representative requesting that you begin the designated application process, which may involve phone and/or in-person interview(s), job-related testing, and background checking.

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Director, Sponsorship Activation & Relations

DEPARTMENT: Progressive Automotive PRIZE - Contract Fulfillment
REPORTS TO: Senior Director
DURATION: Regular, Full-Time
LOCATION: Santa Monica, CA

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Progressive Automotive X PRIZE team is seeking a Director of Sponsorship Activations and Relations. You will be the primary owner of the relationships with all Progressive Automotive X PRIZE sponsors, including first and foremost our Title Sponsor, Progressive. Success will be defined as fully-maximized promotional value for both sponsors and the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE.
You will create and implement compelling sponsorship activation programs hand-in-hand with our sponsors, integrating those programs as well as sponsor signage and attribution into Progressive Automotive X PRIZE race series events, websites, and collateral, as well as all programs created with media partners as appropriate and necessary. Your exceptional communication skills will be put to use as you act as the primary point of contact for all prize sponsors, briefing them and their agencies on prize status and developments. You will participate in and contribute to the sales of additional sponsorships. Organization and an eye for detail will be essential as you ensure that all sponsorship contract terms are met or exceeded. Ideal candidates will be responsive, open and personable communicators with creative minds as well as sales, marketing and sponsorship activation experience.
You must be a driven self-starter with a deep belief in the mission of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE. You will be a key member of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE team and therefore must share our belief in teamwork and open communication.

  • With Progressive Automotive X PRIZE sponsors, design and develop creative and effective sponsorship activation programs that maximize promotional value for both sponsors and the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE
  • Pitch those ideas to sponsors and sponsors’ agencies and implement or assist with the implementation of those programs
  • Acting as primary point of contact for all Progressive Automotive X PRIZE sponsors, communicate frequently, openly and closely with all Progressive Automotive X PRIZE sponsors and the advertising, marketing and communication agencies of those sponsors
  • Frequent travel to sponsor meetings and headquarters
  • Maintain a macro-level view of all sponsorship activities and commitments in order to maximize sponsor value and meet contractual commitments
  • Support the development of compelling sponsorship sales and marketing packages
  • Issue formal performance reports to sponsors on regular basis
  • Ensure sponsor signage and activation programs are effectively integrated into the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE Race Series and that any venue agreements developed with Host Cities are in full alignment with the terms of existing sponsorship agreements
  • Ensure that programs developed with broadcast, print and online media partners are fully integrated with prize sponsor attribution and activation programs, and that any media partner agreements are in full alignment with the terms of existing sponsorship agreements
  • Ensure sponsor attribution and activation programs are effectively integrated into the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE websites and collateral
  • Work with the Executive Director, the Sr. Director of Operations, and the X PRIZE Foundation’s Senior Vice President of Partnerships & Marketing to identify and pursue additional sources of funding for the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE, including Category Sponsors, Supporting Sponsors, and local Host City Sponsors for the race series
  • Work with the Director of Education Programs to manage sponsorship relationships with the U.S. Department of Energy and other education program sponsors, including all required reporting, applications, budgets and other communication
  • Act as the keeper of all sponsorship contracts, understanding all key contract terms and ensuring the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE and the X PRIZE Foundation meet and deliver upon those commitments
  • Act as voice and advocate for prize sponsors in all Progressive Automotive X PRIZE strategy and executive-level decisions, balancing the needs and goals of the competition and the X PRIZE Foundation with the goals of our sponsors

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Minimum 5 years of successful direct experience with sponsor activation and/or account management experience
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in advertising, marketing, media or communications
  • Exceptional ability to develop creative, unique and effective sponsorship activation programs
  • A natural focus on responsive and personable relationship management
  • Skill in interacting with all levels of business people within major corporations, government agencies and educational institutions
  • Experience with contract negotiation and management
  • Advanced knowledge of MS Outlook, MS Exchange, and MS Office Suite, especially MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint
  • Flexibility to grow with the organization and assume new and expanded responsibilities
  • BS or BA in a related business field
  • Ability to quickly learn about and use new software, technology and processes

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience with corporate sponsorships connected with automotive, entertainment and sports properties (preferably racing leagues or circuits)
  • Experience with corporate sponsorships of non-profit organizations
  • Experience with pursuing, receiving and managing government grants and/or with closing and activating corporate sponsorships
  • MBA or advanced business degree
  • Interest in advanced vehicles, environmental issues and/or automotive racing
  • Experience using Salesforce or other similar contact management tools
  • Technology “early-adopter” tendency

GENERAL ABILITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS

  • Self-starter who takes the initiative to start projects, work unsupervised, complete tasks independently, solve roadblocks, and address issues before they become problems
  • Responsive to incoming requests, with a customer-service mindset
  • Collaborative approach; appreciation and enjoyment of working as part of a team
  • Exceptional organizational abilities; aggressive attention to detail
  • Rigorous time management
  • Ability to thrive and think creatively and calmly in highly fluid situations and under intense schedules, pressure & deadlines
  • Prioritization skills and ability to multi-task

PERSONABLE CHARACTERISTICS

  • Personable, professional and calm demeanor
  • Ability to show initiative and complete tasks independently
  • Patience and flexibility
  • Incredible interpersonal skills and can-do attitude
  • Sense of humor and work-life balance
  • Belief that a small group of motivated individuals can truly change the world for the better

X PRIZE and You
This position is currently located one block from the bustling Santa Monica Promenade, minutes from the 10 and 405 freeways, as well as the ocean. We offer a full range of employment benefits including medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, LIFE/AD&D all paid in full by the organization for our regular full-time employees.

The X PRIZE Foundation was established in 1996, attracting leaders in the fields of Life Sciences (Genomics, Healthcare, etc), Space, Energy, Environment, Global Development, Automotive Technology and more. This position is for someone who will be dedicated to making an impact here at the X PRIZE Foundation and ultimately in the world at large. We are a small and rapidly growing organization, who will value your ideas and advice and are looking for people who will thrive in our fast paced, innovative, small group environment.

X PRIZE CULTURE
Our goals are as lofty as they come; where only through entrepreneurial persistence and visionary thinking are solutions to seemingly insurmountable social, technological and environmental issues made possible.

While we externally strive to create a better world, we are internally working to build a culture that supports the kind of passionate, forward thinking people we need to help deliver radical breakthrough solutions to today's most critical and meaningful challenges. To this end, we are working together to create an environment that fosters learning and growth and encourages creativity, transparency, and diversity.

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION offers a comprehensive compensation package to our employee's, which includes the following benefits:


- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- LIFE Insurance
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Domestic Partner Benefit Coverage
- Year End Discretionary Bonus Program
- Generous Paid Vacation Leave
- Generous Paid Time Off Leave
- 10 Paid Holidays

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate in employment. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.

Please note: Though submitting a resume to the X PRIZE FOUNDATION implies that you are interested in a position(s), it does not imply that you are an applicant. Furthermore, you are not considered an applicant until you have been contacted directly by a Human Resources representative requesting that you begin the designated application process, which may involve phone and/or in-person interview(s), job-related testing, and background checking.

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Director, Education Program

DEPARTMENT: Progressive Automotive PRIZE - Contract Fulfillment
REPORTS TO: Senior Director
DURATION: Regular, Full-Time
LOCATION: Santa Monica, CA

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Progressive Automotive X PRIZE team is seeking a Director of Education Programs to develop and oversee Progressive Automotive X PRIZE educational outreach. You will make use of funding from the U.S. Department of Energy and other education program sponsors to develop compelling, robust and multi-part educational outreach programs that inspire youth to learn more about advanced vehicles, alternative fuels, and environmental issues and that generate excitement in students and the general public about our efficient vehicle future.
You will use your experience with non-traditional, interactive education methods to rapidly develop an effective, viral online experience that includes interesting and factual content, interesting games, social networking, and a real-time display of vehicle telemetry and eco-feedback data from the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE race series. You will also design, launch, and promote an inspirational national student contest that reaches into the classroom. Progressive Automotive X PRIZE education programs will need to be integrated into the race series events in Host Cities across the United States, involving both local educational institutions and national media.
You must be a creative and organized thinker capable of cross-functional management and of developing unique and complex programs on time and under budget. You must be a driven self-starter with a deep belief in the mission of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE. You will be a key member of the senior management of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE, and must share our belief in teamwork and open communication.

  • Develop an extraordinary and effective set of education programs for the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE to inspire young people to learn more about and pursue careers in advanced vehicle development, alternative fuels, and related environmental issues, and to generate excitement about the efficient vehicle options of the near-future
  • Lead the specification, design, launch and maintenance of a compelling, interactive and viral online experience that will provide comprehensive online resources, content, games and social networking tools made easily accessible to students, parents, teachers, and all individuals who have a curiosity to learn more about issues surrounding the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE
  • Define, launch, and promote a national contest to harness student creativity, inviting teams of high school students to imagine what the role of transportation will be in their future world
  • With Director of Event Management and communications resources, host educational activities during local Host City events of the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE race series, working with local educational institutions, integrating students into race-day activities and promoting student outreach programs to the national media
  • With Sr. Director of Technology and Government Relations, work with contractors to refine specifications for vehicle telemetry data, for a telemetry-based online experience, and for a virtual and online eco-feedback indicator; work with contractors to develop and operate vehicle telemetry and related online experience
  • Along with Executive Director and Sr. Director of Operations, identify and pursue additional sources of funding for education programs, ranging from sponsors, individual donors, or other unique sources, as well as partners who will create and provide content for education programs, ranging from NGOs to government agencies
  • Along with Director of Sponsorship Activation & Relations, manage relationship with U.S. Department of Energy and other education program sponsors, including all reporting, applications, budgets and other communication
  • Select, manage & oversee multiple contractors and consultants involved with the development and implementation of Progressive Automotive X PRIZE education programs, ranging from web developers to designers and communications firms to key education groups
  • Act as voice and advocate for education & students in all Progressive Automotive X PRIZE strategy and executive-level decisions

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Deep knowledge of math and science education, especially at the high-school level
  • Belief in a creative approach to education that makes full use of current technology & trends in education
  • Insight into the math and science behind efficient vehicle development as well as environmental and alternative fuel trends and forecasts
  • Minimum 10 years of education-related experience
  • Minimum 5 years of experience with online or software-based education, especially in a product management capacity
  • Experience effectively managing a geographically-dispersed team consisting primarily of part-time consultants and contract resources
  • Ability to create compelling sales and marketing collateral packages
  • Skill in interacting with all levels of business people and with government agencies and educational institutions
  • Advanced knowledge of MS Outlook, MS Exchange, and MS Office Suite, especially MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint
  • Flexibility to grow with the organization and assume new and expanded responsibilities
  • BS or BA in a related business, education, computer science, engineering or environmental field
  • Ability to quickly learn about and use new software, technology and processes

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience running broad, national education contests and/or student contents related to efficient vehicles
  • Experience with pursuing, receiving and managing government grants and/or with closing and activating corporate sponsorships
  • Knowledge of online user experience best practices, approaches to game design, and website development process
  • Experience with managing technical teams, including developers, systems engineers, and quality assurance experts
  • Event management expertise
  • MBA or advanced business, education, computer science, engineering or environmental degree
  • Experience using Salesforce or other similar contact management tools
  • Experience using a website content management system or knowledge of HTML or more advanced coding languages a plus
  • Technology “early-adopter” tendency

GENERAL ABILITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS

  • Self-starter who takes the initiative to start projects, work unsupervised, complete tasks independently, solve roadblocks, and address issues before they become problems
  • Collaborative approach; appreciation and enjoyment of working as part of a team
  • Exceptional organizational abilities; aggressive attention to detail
  • Rigorous time management
  • Ability to thrive and think creatively and calmly in highly fluid situations and under intense schedules, pressure & deadlines
  • Prioritization skills and ability to multi-task
  • Personable, professional and calm demeanor
  • Ability to show initiative and complete tasks independently
  • Patience and flexibility
  • Incredible interpersonal skills and can-do attitude
  • Sense of humor and work-life balance
  • Belief that a small group of motivated individuals can truly change the world for the better

X PRIZE and You
This position is currently located one block from the bustling Santa Monica Promenade, minutes from the 10 and 405 freeways, as well as the ocean. We offer a full range of employment benefits including medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, LIFE/AD&D all paid in full by the organization for our regular full-time employees.

The X PRIZE Foundation was established in 1996, attracting leaders in the fields of Life Sciences (Genomics, Healthcare, etc), Space, Energy, Environment, Global Development, Automotive Technology and more. This position is for someone who will be dedicated to making an impact here at the X PRIZE Foundation and ultimately in the world at large. We are a small and rapidly growing organization, who will value your ideas and advice and are looking for people who will thrive in our fast paced, innovative, small group environment.

X PRIZE CULTURE
Our goals are as lofty as they come; where only through entrepreneurial persistence and visionary thinking are solutions to seemingly insurmountable social, technological and environmental issues made possible.

While we externally strive to create a better world, we are internally working to build a culture that supports the kind of passionate, forward thinking people we need to help deliver radical breakthrough solutions to today's most critical and meaningful challenges. To this end, we are working together to create an environment that fosters learning and growth and encourages creativity, transparency, and diversity.

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION offers a comprehensive compensation package to our employee's, which includes the following benefits:


- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- LIFE Insurance
- Short Term Disability
- Long Term Disability
- Domestic Partner Benefit Coverage
- Year End Discretionary Bonus Program
- Generous Paid Vacation Leave
- Generous Paid Time Off Leave
- 10 Paid Holidays

The X PRIZE FOUNDATION is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate in employment. Equal access to employment, services, and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.

Please note: Though submitting a resume to the X PRIZE FOUNDATION implies that you are interested in a position(s), it does not imply that you are an applicant. Furthermore, you are not considered an applicant until you have been contacted directly by a Human Resources representative requesting that you begin the designated application process, which may involve phone and/or in-person interview(s), job-related testing, and background checking.

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About the X PRIZE Foundation

X PRIZE FOUNDATION
X PRIZE Foundation recognizes entrepreneurial individuals and businesses as they reach seemingly impossible goals in competition with others. Through the medium of prize competition the X PRIZE Foundation encourages focused work and groundbreaking innovation in fields such as energy, environment, life sciences, genomics, healthcare, global development, education & space. The X PRIZE rewards those efforts and helps us all to push beyond the frontiers of human achievement into new and expanding human experiences for the benefit of all mankind.
The X PRIZE Foundation’s strategy for fostering innovation is ambitious. Rather than rewarding past achievements (the Nobel Prize is a well known example), the X PRIZE uses the prize competition model to create a sense of urgency and incite new thinking and invention. X PRIZE structures and publicizes competitions and the efforts of innovators, excites the imagination of investors and drives funding support toward competitors. The Foundation conceives, manages, promotes, judges and financially supports all X PRIZEs and represents X PRIZE competitions to governments, businesses, competitors, entrepreneurs, inventors, media and the public.

 

BACKGROUND
The X PRIZE Foundation is an educational non-profit 501(c)3 prize institute founded in 1996. The Vice President will report to Tom Vander Ark who joins X PRIZE after serving as Executive Director of Education for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The Founder of X PRIZE, Dr. Peter Diamandis, serves as CEO and Chair of the Board of Trustees and remains intimately involved in promoting the interests of the Foundation.

The X PRIZE captured world headlines when it became the primary incentive for the first privately-built and funded spaceship in 2004. The incentive was the $10 million AnsariX PRIZE financed by the Ansari Family and won by Burt Rutan and Paul Allen with a manned suborbital spaceflight by SpaceShipOne. By offering $10 million, the Ansari X PRIZE stimulated competition among the world’s most talented entrepreneurs and rocket scientists to create a new generation of launch vehicles that could one day support commercial spaceflight and a space tourism market.
The Ansari X PRIZE Competition was modeled after the Orteig Prize, won by Charles Lindbergh in 1927 for being the first to fly non-stop from New York to Paris. The Orteig Prize was one of hundreds of aviation incentive prizes offered in the early 20th Century – competitions that helped create the modern aviation industry. The Ansari X PRIZE was designed to have the same effect on the space industry. The X PRIZE Foundation has since introduced the Archon X PRIZE for Genomics, the Automotive X PRIZE, the Northrop Grumman Lunar Lander Challenge, and other X PRIZEs are planned to address energy, education, environmental, social, medical, water and poverty issues.