Applications are now open for State of the Map US scholarships! Once again, 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 Richmond, Virginia June 8-11, 2023 for the annual State of the Map US conference. Want to attend? If you are interested in connecting with the OpenStreetMap US community in Richmond 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.
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 dorm accommodations 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
How Do I Apply?
Apply by filling out this form!
Be sure to apply by February 24, 2023. The selection committee will aim to notify scholarship recipients in early March.
A Request to Applicants
Every year, we receive hundreds of applications that are reviewed by a small team of staff and volunteers. We ask for your patience through the review process. We will notify EVERYONE if they are accepted or not but it will take time. Please do not email us asking about the status of your application, these emails slow down the process for everyone.
Questions?
If you have questions about the application, please feel free to contact us at scholarships@stateofthemap.us.
