Applications are now open for State of the Map US scholarships!
This year we’re looking to bring in our largest cohort yet, from a diversity of communities, professions, geographies and associations.
OpenStreetMap contributors and enthusiasts will be gathering in Tucson, Arizona April 1-3, 2022 for the annual State of the Map US conference. Want to attend? If you are interested in connecting with the OpenStreetMap US community in Tucson and financial support will help make that happen - apply now for a scholarship! No matter where you live, what your interests, or how long you have been involved: we welcome your application!
State of the Map US is meant to build community and facilitate an exchange of ideas around the free and editable map of the world, and thanks to our members and sponsors we are able to offer scholarships and decrease participation costs for all of those who are interested in attending. Don’t let travel costs keep you from participating!
This year we’re asking all scholars to be an even stronger part of the conference by either working a volunteer shift or presenting a lightning talk. We hope that this will provide a great opportunity for scholars, especially those who are new to the community, with the chance to actively engage, learn, and contribute to the community in-person. In addition to the scholar lightning talks, you are welcome to submit a full length talk or workshop for the conference here.
Deadline: Wednesday, November 30, 2021
Scholarship Details
Scholarship recipients may receive:
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Support towards the cost of your travel, based on your location (up to $500 reimbursement)
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Accommodation expenses (3 nights hotel for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights)
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A Complimentary Conference Ticket to State of the Map US
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Child care during conference hours
All scholars will be included in special gatherings and opportunities during the conference.
In return, OpenStreetMap US will ask recipients to volunteer or give a lightning talk during the conference. Of course, we also ask you to help us spread the word on social media, invite your friends, and if you are interested in contributing a blog post about your experience please let us know!
Who is Eligible?
Scholarships are available to anyone, but their purpose is to help those attend who would not have otherwise been able to. We encourage and welcome diversity in the OpenStreetMap US community. We don’t want a single person to miss out on this exciting event. It takes millions of edits to make OpenStreetMap a resource for us all, but it only takes you to make our community unique and special. Please consider joining us! We’re especially interested in providing support to members of the following groups who may not otherwise have the ability to attend:
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Educators
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Recent high school graduates that are members of a youth organization (such as FFA, 4H, NHS, Boy/Girl Scouts)
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Current or recent university/college students, especially those that are members of geography or geospatial-focused student groups
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Individuals that are community organizers or members of a community-based organization (outside of OpenStreetMap)
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Individuals that are members or provide leadership for local OSM US chapters
Health Protocols
We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable conference. We will be requiring proof of vaccination or a negative test upon entry to State of the Map US. You will be asked to show your card or an app proving vaccination, or proof of a negative test within 72 hours of the day you’re attending. We will follow any federal, state and local regulations related to COVID-19 that are in effect at the time, as well as any CDC recommendations that apply to an event like SOTM US. As we get closer to the event date, we will inform you about any changes to our COVID precautions. Our policy and full health protocol will be made available on the State of the Map US website soon.
Travel Guidance:
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If you are travelling internationally to attend State of the Map US, it is your responsibility to meet and adhere to CDC international travel requirements.
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If you are traveling domestically to attend State of the Map US, we encourage you to review CDC domestic travel guidelines.
How Do I Apply?
Apply by filling out this form!
Be sure to apply by November 30th, 2021. The selection committee will aim to notify scholarship recipients by December 15, 2021.
Questions?
If you have questions, please feel free to contact us at scholarships@stateofthemap.us.
