At the VetResources Community Network (VRCN), we believe in the power of community and the transformative potential of all Veteran-community serving organizations and teams. It is with this spirit in mind that we challenge U.S.-based non-profit teams and organizations who are making strides to create impactful change to support our Veterans, their families, caregivers and/or survivors to apply for the VRCN Catalyst Award and share their fresh ideas and efforts to engage underserved Veterans.

What is the VRCN Catalyst Award?

A total of $100,000 will be awarded to 10 Veteran-community-serving non-profit organizations or teams to implement fresh ideas in outreach and engagement of underserved Veteran communities. The award acknowledges those who work tirelessly to promote collaboration, support Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors, and spearhead initiatives that address pressing challenges facing the ever-growing and diverse Veteran community today and in the future.

Why it matters

The VRCN Catalyst Award is not just about improving outreach and engagement to the Veteran community—it’s about creating a ripple effect. The recognized organizations and teams embody the spirit of this award, serving as catalysts for greater growth and positive change in how we serve and support our Veteran community. They inspire others to think big, act boldly and create lasting impacts.

The VRCN knows that our strength lies in our collective efforts. Each of us has the potential to influence, uplift and drive forward efforts that can transform the Veteran community and the individuals that compose it. Whether it’s through mentorship, innovative thinking, social responsibility or simply offering a helping hand to Veterans in need, the VRCN Catalyst Award showcases how one organization, one action, one engagement and one community can be powerful.

Who can apply?

The VRCN Catalyst Award is open to any U.S.-based Veteran-serving non-profit organization or team that has an innovative idea for increasing engagement for Veterans, especially in the following priority categories: rural Veterans, transitioning Veterans, minority Veterans and the Veteran Gaming Community.

How to Apply

Applying for the VRCN Catalyst Award is easy. Simply visit and follow the challenge on the challenge.gov website to review the full details, watch the applicant informational webinar and complete the application form. Any questions or concerns not already addressed can be directed to vrcncatalystaward@ibility.io.

Celebrating excellence

If you or someone you know is driving meaningful change and making a difference in the Veteran community, we encourage you to share the VRCN Catalyst Award. This challenge highlights the role that we all play in building a stronger, more inclusive and innovative VA community. Let’s spread the word to those who are shaping the future of VA and encourage others to follow in their footsteps. Together, we can create a ripple effect that transforms lives, strengthens our network and builds a brighter tomorrow for all Veterans, their families, caregivers and/or survivors. Stay tuned on VRCN, the Veterans Experience Office and challenge.gov for updates.

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3 Comments

  1. Ronald E Cutler January 30, 2025 at 21:42

    The VA has been giving a lot of Lip Service in the last several years and are not providing any services for what they have been promoting?
    When you apply, you are told you do not qualify, after a lot of phone interviews , by some review board?

  2. Ronald E Cutler January 30, 2025 at 21:31

    The VA is giving a tremendous amount of Lip service in the last several years and when a Veteran really need’s some assistance , you go through a lot of interviews and questionnaires and then you are told you do not qualify.
    This is decided by someone who makes this decision , that you have not talked to or has no idea what your situation is, and they are probably working from home, while changing their baby’s diaper:
    The whole program is a waste of time and taxpayers money!

  3. Matthew Davison January 27, 2025 at 18:34

    For 13 years, a non-profit Veteran service organization called Operation Confidence began serving disabled Veterans at a job fair at the LA Sports Arena. In the years that followed, Operation Confidence joined forces with You Tube to present weekly podcasts directed to disabled, homeless, dual diagnosed and once incarcerated Veterans. Operation Confidence was a dream of it’s Executive Director, Consuella Mackey, who sadly, passed away one year ago this coming February from COVID. Unfortunately, her dream died with her. While on the air, Operation Confidence shared information from DAV, Vietnam Veterans of America, Paralyzed Veterans of America and many other organizations serving Veterans and their families. I was privileged to be VP and Board Member for Operation Confidence, responsible for getting podcast guests and interviewing them. It was the most fulfilling work I had ever done as a disabled Veteran. If I’m not mistaken, Operation Confidence can still be accessed on the internet. While we no longer qualify for any prize regarding our work, I felt it important to share it with you. My thanks go out to the VA for all that you do for those who served and sacrificed for America and irs Constitution. With respect, Matthew Davison

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