THE MANIFESTO
Output over prestige.
A fellowship or small grant gives someone time, money, and support to do work that might not otherwise exist.
Talent is everywhere. What is usually missing is time, trust, and money. Open Medici makes existing fellowships and grants easier to find. I also want it to help create new ones.
Where is the next Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo?
Output over prestige
Judge a fellowship or grant by the work it makes possible. Output matters more than prestige. Some bets will fail. That is part of the model.
The Thiel Fellowship gives young people two years, funding, and a network to work on their own projects. The 1517 Medici Project offers grants of at least $1,000. We need more programs in robotics and respiratory science. Art too. A first grant may be enough to find out.
A fellowship takes time, people, and money
The grant is only one part. Someone has to find the right people, review applications, make decisions, handle payments and legal work, and support the fellows. Without a strong team, even a generous fellowship can waste everyone's time.
Want to start one?
I have created fellowships, and I know how much work sits behind them. If you are thinking about starting one, email me or use the contact form. I can give you honest feedback or introduce you to people who have done it before.
Aleix · Alerio