Truist Foundation Unveils the Six Finalists for the 2025 Inspire Awards
Truist Foundation Unveils Finalists for the 2025 Inspire Awards
On April 7, 2025, the Truist Foundation proudly revealed the six finalists for its third edition of the Inspire Awards. This program is designed to provide grants to nonprofit organizations that are leading the charge in workforce development for adults who are in the mid to later stages of their careers. As confidence in skills among American employees wavers—only 47% feel equipped for excellence in their roles—this initiative is a timely intervention aimed at boosting workforce readiness and economic resilience across the nation.
In a collaboration with MIT Solve, an initiative from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the Inspire Awards finalists will engage in a six-month development program. This immersive experience includes in-person training at the Truist Leadership Institute, coupled with tailored coaching and workshops to refine and scale their workforce solutions.
Commitment to Supporting Nonprofits
Lynette Bell, the president of the Truist Foundation, emphasized the organization’s dedication to enhancing career opportunities for mid and late-career adults. According to Bell, "These finalists represent innovative and forward-thinking solutions aimed at enabling individuals to navigate career shifts, acquire new skills, and achieve sustained financial stability. Our collaboration with MIT Solve embodies our commitment to nurturing transformative ideas that create a profound impact in communities."
Finalists Making a Difference
The following organizations have been selected as finalists for their unique approaches to career development:
1. Breaking Barriers Through Deconstruction by Lifecycle Building Center: A program that trains low-income adults in the skills needed for building material recovery and reusing materials for home repairs and energy-efficient upgrades.
2. FreeWorld: This tech-enabled program focuses on reskilling and placing formerly incarcerated individuals into the trucking sector.
3. ReCastED by the Masonry Foundation: A mentorship-driven initiative that provides tradespeople with pathways to Career and Technical Education (CTE) teaching positions to fill gaps in the industry.
4. Safety Net Tool for Economic Mobility by Integrity Transformations Community Development Corporation: The BestFit digital platform which assists adult learners in navigating basic needs insecurity and non-academic challenges.
5. Seniors R The Answer by Encore Employment Enterprise Inc.: A call-center training program designed specifically for older adults seeking employment, complemented with supportive services.
6. Veterans Electrical Entry Program (VEEP) by Electrical Training ALLIANCE: A pre-apprenticeship program aimed at assisting military personnel transitioning back into the civilian workforce within the electrical trade.
Hala Hanna, executive director of MIT Solve, stated, "Our continued collaboration with the Truist Foundation showcases a shared commitment to empowering nonprofits which contribute significantly to their communities. The progress facilitated through these finalists is essential for fostering opportunities and economic security, key elements for societal well-being."
Looking Ahead to the Inspire Awards Ceremony
The Inspire Awards will culminate in a vibrant ceremony set for November 12, 2025. During this event, the finalists will present their innovative solutions to both live and virtual audiences. Following the presentations, the Truist Foundation will announce the recipients of various grant awards:
- - First Place Grant Award: $250,000
- - Second Place Grant Award: $150,000
- - Runners-up Grant Awards: $25,000 each
- - Audience Favorite Grant Award: Additional $75,000
Registration to participate in the live event is expected to begin in late summer, where virtual attendees can vote for their favorite presentation. For further information, updates, and event registration details, you can visit Truist.com/InspireAwards.
About Truist Foundation
Established in 2020, the Truist Foundation is dedicated to fulfilling Truist Financial Corporation's mission of inspiring better lives and communities. The foundation focuses on making strategic investments in various nonprofit initiatives that promote economic mobility and foster small business growth, ensuring that all communities can thrive. Its notable initiatives include the Inspire Awards and the 'Where It Starts' program. For more information, visit Truist.com/Foundation.
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