The IGNITE Impact Challenge FAQ
Can I interview others for my video or just myself?
Yes, just make sure you have documented permission to share their face and voice in your video. Here is a link to a sample release form. Do keep in mind that these videos may be shared publicly, so do not share private information in your video that may put them at risk.
Can I submit videos in other languages besides English?
Yes, including various languages in your video is a wonderful way to celebrate the diversity of our country. Do keep in mind that many of the judges will only speak English. You may want to consider subtitles to reach a broader audience.
What can I win?
Three winners will be selected from each of the five categories of Snap & Medicaid, Student Loan, Immigration & Border, Energy & Climate, and Personal & Business Tax. 1st place in each category will receive $5,000, 2nd place will receive $3,000, and 3rd place will receive $2,000. That’s a total of $50,000 awarded across 15 videos.
Can I submit on behalf of an organization?
No. Individuals or teams only.
What are the guidelines with copyright and AI in my video?
All standard copyright and intellectual property guidelines still apply when using AI-generated imagery, video, or sound. Please be sure you have the rights to use any music, imagery, or videos in your video. The use of AI must be disclosed when you are submitting your video with a description of what parts of your video relied on AI tools.
Are there length requirements for the video?
The videos must be between 1 and 5 minutes. To support typical viewer preferences and audience impact, we recommend videos should be around 3 minutes in length. Concise storytelling often amplifies the shareability and reach a video can have.
Are there any technical requirements to the videos I submit?
To ensure our judges can access and view the video, please submit your video as an MP4.
Do I have to record the video on my phone?
No! Please feel free to use the equipment you’re most comfortable with, including microphones, cameras, and lighting.
Does the video need to be in an interview format?
No. Feel free to be creative. Anything from scenery shots with voiceover, to comedy skits, to animations would all work well. Showcase your talents!
When is the deadline to submit my video?
The video submission period is April 10, 2026 12:01am PT to May 29, 2026 11:59 PM PT
When will winners be announced?
The five winners will be announced in September 2026. Winners will first be notified via email and will need to respond to confirm their acceptance of their award.
Who is eligible to enter?
Participants must be 18 years or older and be U.S. citizens.
How are the videos judged?
Video submissions will be randomly assigned to a judging panel for review and evaluated on the following criteria:
- Storytelling alignment to the category
- Accuracy of information shared
- Message clarity and clear use of language
- Video and audio quality, and effective use of the medium
- Impact insight exploring depth of the law’s impact
Do I retain the rights to my submitted videos?
Yes. Your video is your work and you are encouraged to share it as you feel comfortable. You are welcome to post your video on social media, share with your community, or keep it private.
The Ignite: Impact Challenge does reserve the right to share your work for promotional videos.
What would disqualify my video?
Immediate disqualification would occur if your video violates any of the following:
- Contains unlawful, defamatory, or hateful content;
- Encourages violence;
- Contains misinformation presented as factual;
- Violates any applicable law;
Fails to comply with the official Terms and Conditions available at https://the-ignite-impact-challenge.secure-platform.com/a/page/terms-conditions.
If you are concerned that your video may violate any of these guidelines, please reach out to us at impactchallenge@ignitenational.org for assistance.
Additional disqualifiers would include videos going over time, content not related to the Public Law 119-21 (The Big Beautiful Bill Act), the submitter being under 18 years old at the time of submission, and not meeting other requirements of the competition.
We understand that your video may include content considered sensitive to some viewers. In these instances, we recommend you include a warning to viewers both in the submission description and at the start of the video.
Can I submit my video to more than one category?
No, a video can only be submitted to a single category. Choose your category and focus on your story with intention and clarity to help your audience understand your message.
Can I submit multiple videos for submission/ can I win more than one category?
Yes, you can submit multiple videos for different categories. Only one video can be submitted to a category, but you are welcome to submit a different video for each of the five categories.