Does your startup idea create positive change? You maybe able to receive a grant from Pepsi

There is a new trend in the publicity efforts of big corporations: giving away grants. This is great news for business and non-profit startups looking for capital, especially in the current tough lending climate created by banks.  One such corporation giving away free money is Pepsi, which has started a "Pepsi Refresh Project". 

Here is how the funding process works: a candidate will submit an application for funding to the Pepsi Refresh Project website.  All eligible applications are made available to the public, who will then vote for their favorite project .  Whatever project receives the most votes wins the grant, a new worthwhile venture is funded, and Pepsi gains visibility for its brand.

The following criteria need to be met for a project to be eligible for entering the competition  1) it should have a positive impact on a community, 2) It should be achievable and ready to start soon, and 3) It should have measurable results.  Business startups who meet these criteria are encouraged to go through the exercise of submitting an application, because even if the application does not translate into funding, the visibility that is gained from the voting process is priceless.

For more information about the Pepsi Refresh Project, visit their website and download the information tool kit.